Bolivian prosecutors are investigating former Argentine presidential adviser Fernando Cerimedo over alleged protection of irregular flights linked to drug trafficking.
Bolivian prosecutors have opened an investigation into former Argentine presidential adviser Fernando Cerimedo over alleged protection for irregular flights suspected of being linked to the trafficking of controlled substances, Beni departmental prosecutor Alexander Mendoza said.
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Mendoza said the investigation centers on alleged protection provided in the municipality of Santa Ana to aircraft suspected of being involved in drug trafficking. He said prosecutors would provide further details as the investigation progresses.
“We must base ourselves on facts, not assumptions, on something concrete. If that is the case, then of course we have to move forward,” Mendoza said at a news conference. He added that people were already under investigation for trafficking controlled substances and that the case could be expanded to include Cerimedo, potentially leading to formal charges before a court.
Other investigations involving Cerimedo
The new investigation comes as Cerimedo faces three other legal proceedings in Bolivia, two in Santa Cruz and one in La Paz, according to Mendoza.
In Santa Cruz, prosecutors are investigating allegations that Cerimedo attempted to kill his partner, Nadia Beller. A separate complaint accuses him of domestic violence.
In La Paz, authorities are investigating alleged illicit enrichment affecting the state. Prosecutors have identified four properties and an office belonging to Cerimedo and may also charge him with money laundering, Mendoza said.
The Beni investigation follows a case known as “narcoencomiendas,” which Mendoza recalled in late May. The case involved the transfer of 350,000 bolivianos from Santa Ana de Yacuma and the participation of an aviation pilot and three police officers.
Prosecutors expanded that investigation after suspecting irregularities.
Mendoza did not say that Cerimedo had been formally charged over the alleged protection of irregular flights. He said prosecutors would first determine whether there was concrete evidence of his involvement before deciding whether to expand the investigation.
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