Five charged with murder of university finance manager in Quito; Prosecution points to audits as motive
Ecuador's prosecution revealed that the crime of Santiago Ávalos, which occurred on 11 June, was allegedly planned by five people. The academic institution demands that the case does not go unpunished.
Five charged with murder of university finance manager in Quito; Prosecution points to audits as motive
An Ecuador court ordered the arraignment of five people in criminal proceedings for the homicide of Santiago Ávalos, who served as finance manager of an educational institution in Quito. The crime occurred on 11 June 2026 and, according to investigations by the prosecution, would have as its background irregularities detected in internal audits.
Prosecution investigators argue that the attack was premeditated and that there would be a direct connection between the accounting reviews that Ávalos handled and the decision to eliminate him. The educational institution has publicly expressed its concern and has demanded that the investigation be pursued to its fullest extent to prevent those responsible from escaping punishment.
During the hearings, three of the detained individuals chose to remain silent and not testify before the authorities. The defence of the accused have not yet presented public arguments regarding the alleged innocence of their clients. For its part, the prosecution continues to gather evidence to strengthen its case theory.
Ávalos's murder has caused consternation in the academic and financial sector of the Ecuador capital. The affected university has reiterated its commitment to transparency and has stated that it will collaborate with the authorities to clarify the facts.
The prosecution has not ruled out that further individuals may be called to testify as the investigation advances. It is expected that in coming days measures of restraint will be determined for each of those charged.
Source: Primicias
Source: Google News CL — Santiago