International Arrest Warrants Issued in Odebrecht Scandal

Arrest Warrants Issued for Colombians in Guatemala's Odebrecht Case A Guatemalan court has issued arrest warrants for former Colombian Defense Minister Iván Velásquez and Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo. The warrants stem from an ongoing investigation into the Odebrecht corruption scandal, which has implicated numerous high-ranking officials across Latin America. The investigation, launched in January 2023 by the Guatemalan Attorney General's office, alleges that Velásquez and Camargo aided Odebrecht executives in securing favorable contracts, resulting in significant financial losses for the Guatemalan state. "Velásquez and Camargo's alleged participation in this scheme represents a severe betrayal of public trust," stated Rafael Curruchiche, head of Guatemala's Special Prosecutor's Office Against Impunity. The warrants have been issued through Interpol, signifying the international scope of the investigation and the determination to hold those responsible accountable. While Velásquez has denied the allegations, calling the investigation a politically motivated persecution, the Guatemalan government remains committed to pursuing the case to its full extent. The case highlights the ongoing struggle against corruption in the region and the importance of international cooperation in bringing corrupt officials to justice.