Businessman Jorge Gaitán was captured and placed at the disposal of the Third Criminal Sentencing Court, following the revelation of an extradition request against him, issued by the Attorney General’s Office of El Salvador. His arrest occurred 24 hours after the detention of his father, Jorge Leonel Gaitán Paredes, who also faces charges for the same crime.
Million-Dollar Fraud in Terra Towers
Both businessmen are accused of the alleged misappropriation of more than one million dollars from the company Terra Towers, through the unauthorized approval of allowances, checks, and travel expenses without the consent of the company’s board.
According to investigations, the funds were diverted into private accounts and used for personal purposes, affecting the financial stability of the company. This case has raised concerns in the business sector, as it suggests a possible corruption scheme with legal consequences in both Guatemala and El Salvador.
Judicial Process and Extradition Request
During the hearing, the Public Ministry (MP) requested that Jorge Gaitán Castro’s detention be formalized, while Salvadoran authorities submit the official extradition request. Prosecutors argued that there is substantial evidence of his involvement in the crimes, justifying his imprisonment while legal procedures are finalized.
However, Jorge Gaitán attorney, Ana Lucía Alejos, stated that the extradition request contains legal flaws, arguing that her client is already facing a legal process in Guatemala for the same offenses, which would prevent double prosecution.
Court Decision and Opposition to Extradition
The Third Criminal Sentencing Court ruled that the formal extradition request must be reviewed before making a final decision. Therefore, it ordered that Jorge Gaitán Castro remain in preventive detention, just like his father, while the case documents are examined.
The court granted a one-month deadline for El Salvador to formalize its request. During the hearing, Jorge Gaitán categorically rejected his extradition, claiming that the case against him is unfair.
The case remains under review, and a final decision on the fate of the businessmen involved in this corruption scandal is expected in the coming days.
