Peru President Dina Boluarte's Brother, Nicanor Boluarte Arrested Over Rolex Scandal

Peru authorities have detained President Dina Boluarte's brother and lawyer in connection with alleged influence peddling, intensifying scrutiny on the country's leader, who is already under investigation over the Rolex scandal after receiving watches and jewelry.

The police apprehended President Boluarte's brother, Nicanor Boluarte, and her lawyer, Mateo Castaneda, on Friday as part of an inquiry into suspected influence peddling.

This investigation targets Nicanor Boluarte for purportedly leading a criminal network that manipulates the appointment of individuals to high-ranking positions of authority, Reuters reports.

Authorities conducted searches at more than 20 locations, including Nicanor Boluarte's residence in Lima, where they allege he orchestrated the placement of individuals in influential roles in exchange for financial gain.

Simultaneously, the president's lawyer, Mateo Castaneda, faced a raid on his home as part of the investigation into the alleged improper acquisition of luxury items by President Boluarte.

The Peru Justice Department authorized the detention of Nicanor Boluarte and others for ten days, citing suspicions of criminal organization and influence peddling.

President Boluarte, speaking at a democracy forum, expressed confidence in the justice system but made no explicit mention of the detentions.

Nicanor Boluarte, upon his transfer to a judicial unit, adamantly denied the allegations, asserting his innocence to reporters.

He faces charges related to conspiracy and influence peddling, accused of leveraging his connections to secure appointments in exchange for monetary benefits.

Castaneda, the president's lawyer, is accused of obstructing the investigation into Nicanor Boluarte's activities.

Political Turmoil in Peru

Peru has faced political instability in recent years, with six different presidents in as many years, accompanied by frequent corruption investigations and impeachment proceedings.

President Dina Boluarte succeeded Pedro Castillo in December 2022, who himself was removed from office and detained on charges of corruption and rebellion.

The arrests were sanctioned by a judge,

as per the warrant acquired by The Associated Press.

The document alleges that Nicanor Boluarte orchestrated the appointment of government officials in exchange for financial incentives and support for registering a new political party.

Continued Pressure on Boluarte

President Boluarte's approval ratings remain low, around 10 percent, as she faces mounting challenges during her tenure.

Her administration has been marred by controversies, including allegations of corruption and suppression of dissent.

Prior to the recent detentions, President Boluarte faced scrutiny over her possession of the Rolex scandal and high-end jewelry, which she claimed were loans from a friend.

The ongoing investigation aims to ascertain the legality of her acquisition and ownership of these luxury items, CTV News noted.

Attorney General Juan Villena announced on social media that he is assessing the decision to dissolve a police unit that was assisting in the investigation into President Boluarte's inner circle.

Interior Minister Walter Ortiz authorized the disbandment of this unit, prompting further questions about the government's handling of corruption probes.

The detention of President Dina Boluarte's brother and lawyer underscores the deepening crisis of governance in Peru, marked by allegations of corruption and abuse of power.

As investigations continue, the country grapples with a fragile political landscape, plagued by frequent leadership changes and persistent allegations of misconduct at the highest levels of government.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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