The Prosecutor’s Office will initiate investigations against Interior Ministry officials.

On Wednesday, Guatemalan Security Minister Jose Portillo stated that the escape of members of the Barrio 18 gang from Fraijanes II prison on Sunday could not have occurred without internal collusion among officials.

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Portillo complained against Deputy Interior Minister Claudia Palencia for usurpation of functions and bribery, stating that the Presidential Commission against Corruption is aware of the case but has not taken any action so far.

He also pointed out irregularities in the National Civil Police, such as human trafficking and improper charges at the Academy, underlining that these practices reveal a deeply rooted system of corruption within the police force.

Minister Portillo reiterated his commitment to transparency and announced that he will resign from his position before President Bernardo Arevalo, arguing that the irregularities detected make it impossible for him to continue in office.

The text reades, “Jose Portillo denounces irregularities in the Interior Ministry.”

The Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed receipt of the five complaints and announced that it will initiate the corresponding investigations against Claudia Palencia and other Ministry of the Interior officials.

Allegations include illegal charges for transit licenses, migrant smuggling on the Esquipulas–North route, “unscrupulous practices” in the Penitentiary System, and irregularities in promotions within the police force.

Portillo revealed that he received instructions from Interior Minister Francisco Jimenez to have Claudia Palencia directly manage penitentiary system issues, where she “recommended key appointments and participated in working groups on extortion and gangs.”

teleSUR: JP

Source: Centroamerica 360 – Prensa Libre

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