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Bolivia’s Lava Jato Investigations: Corruption Scandals Rock the Country

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La Paz, Bolivia - The ongoing Lava Jato investigations in Bolivia have uncovered a web of corruption and deceit that has rocked the country’s political and business elite. Two companies and several government officials have been accused of wrongdoing since the investigations began in 2020.

YPFB: A Claim Rejected

In one case, Romero filed a claim against the president of YPFB (Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscales Bolivianos), alleging crimes of dereliction of duty and anti-economic conduct. However, the National Public Prosecutor’s Office rejected the claim, citing insufficient evidence.

Judge and Other Officials Allegedly Asked for USD 10,000 to Dismiss a Case

In another case, a private citizen claimed to have been extorted by a Fifth Criminal Instruction Judge in El Alto, who requested a payment of USD 10,000 to dismiss a criminal case. The citizen presented a recording of over 50 minutes that allegedly showed the judge coordinating with a Prosecutor’s Office official to extort her.

Congressional Representative Allegedly Made USD 51 Million Transfers

In March, the Public Prosecutor’s Office charged a congressional representative with money laundering, alleging he made transfers worth USD 51 million to four countries between 2018 and August 2021. The representative claimed the funds came from an old real estate business.

Minister of Environment and Water Resigns Amid Bribery Allegations

In May, allegations emerged that the Minister of Environment and Water had been involved in a bribery scheme related to the award of works. The minister resigned, and several officials were arrested on charges of illicit enrichment and money laundering.

Bolivian Soccer Federation Files Claim for Fraud and Criminal Association

In September, the Bolivian Soccer Federation filed a claim with the Public Prosecutor’s Office for fraud and criminal association, alleging a corruption network among officials, referees, and players. The federation suspended several matches based on evidence of match-fixing.

Outlook for 2024: Strengthening Anticorruption Measures

In an effort to combat corruption, Bolivia’s government is expected to continue implementing its Plurinational Policy Against Corruption in 2024. The policy aims to develop a risk management system, include anticorruption clauses in public contracts, and strengthen coordination with private sector companies.

PPO: Leading the Way in Anticorruption Efforts

As leading law firm in Bolivia, PPO is committed to providing exceptional legal services while promoting transparency and integrity in business. With over 60 attorneys and 100 professionals, PPO has extensive experience in anticorruption matters and is well-positioned to support clients navigating the complexities of Bolivia’s legal landscape.

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