Former anti-narcotics prosecutor Julio César Porras arrested after testifying in 'suitcase case'
Former prosecutor Julio César Porras was arrested upon concluding his second statement before the Controlled Substances Prosecutor's Office as part of the 'suitcase case'.
Former anti-narcotics prosecutor detained after giving expanded statement in 'suitcase case'
Former anti-narcotics prosecutor Julio César Porras was arrested on Thursday, 12 November, after presenting himself for the second time before the Controlled Substances Prosecutor's Office to give his expanded statement, according to El Deber.
Porras had previously expressed his willingness to testify as many times as he was called upon. When transferred from the prosecutor's office to the facilities of the Special Force Against Drug Trafficking (FELCN), he was seen in handcuffs. "I am innocent, I only worked," he declared to members of the press.
The 'suitcase case' involves the transport of suitcases containing processed marijuana from the United States to Viru Viru airport in Santa Cruz. The investigations have implicated several former officials. Among those involved are former departmental prosecutor Alberto Zeballos and former state attorney general Róger Mariaca. Also linked is Mauricio Requena, former adviser to former Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) president Rómer Saucedo, who is a fugitive after declaring himself in exile.
Porras is the latest person arrested to date in connection with this case. Before his detention, former judge Hebert Zeballos pointed him out in a recorded video as having been appointed as prosecutor by Mariaca with the alleged purpose of covering up investigations into the case.
Source: El Deber