UNGRD Corruption: Former Manrique Advisor in Soacha
UNGRD Corruption Scandal Deepens: Key Figure Linked too Multi-Billion Peso Bribery scheme
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A major corruption scandal involving colombia’s National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD) is escalating, with new evidence pointing to a complex network of diverted contracts and illicit payments. At the center of the unfolding investigation is Jorge Aristizábal, identified as a key player in a “criminal association” responsible for funneling millions of pesos towards political figures and contractors.
Multi-Billion Peso Bribery Scheme Unveiled
The scandal revolves around the alleged diversion of funds intended for disaster relief and management. Authorities are now focusing on the movement of three billion pesos (approximately $735,000 USD) in bribes that allegedly ended up in the hands of César Manrique Soacha. These events transpired in January 2024 and represent a significant blow to Colombia’s efforts to combat corruption.
According to a collaboration matrix provided by Luis Carlos Barreto Gantiva, the former deputy director of the UNGRD and a central figure in the case, Aristizábal was directly instructed by Manrique Soacha to handle and transport large sums of cash. Barreto Gantiva’s testimony details how Aristizábal was specifically tasked with receiving the money and transporting it in a private vehicle to the headquarters of the Department of Public function in Bogotá.
César Manrique Soacha: The Alleged Beneficiary
Manrique Soacha is accused of receiving the ample three billion peso sum “for his management,” suggesting a quid pro quo arrangement involving the manipulation of UNGRD contracts. The precise nature of his “management” and the specific contracts involved are currently under investigation.
Authorities have been actively searching for Manrique Soacha for several days, aiming to enforce a deprivation of liberty order issued against him. CTI agents from the Prosecutor’s Office have raided his residence in Chapinero, bogotá, and also his registered office, but have so far been unable to locate him.
International Pursuit and Potential Flight Risk
The Prosecutor’s Office is now considering applying to Interpol for assistance in locating Manrique Soacha, fearing he may have fled the country. This concern is fueled by the similar actions of Carlos Ramón González,the former director of the Administrative Department of the Presidency (Danpre),who is also linked to the scandal and is believed to have left Colombia.
This case highlights the persistent challenges Colombia faces in tackling corruption within its government institutions. The UNGRD, responsible for coordinating disaster response and risk management, is a critical agency, and allegations of corruption within its ranks raise serious concerns about the effective allocation of resources during times of crisis. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities continue to pursue those implicated in this complex bribery scheme.
the pursuit of justice in this case is crucial not only for holding those responsible accountable but also for restoring public trust in Colombia’s governance and ensuring that vital disaster relief funds reach those who need them most.