AHMSA acquisition fails as bidder deposits 5,000 pesos instead of $56.3 million guarantee

A federal judge has referred the case of Altos Hornos de México (AHMSA) to the Attorney General's Office (FGR) following a failed acquisition attempt by Construcciones e Ingenierías Electromecánicas (CIESA). Although the company, represented by businessman José Arturo Domínguez Arteaga, had offered $1.4 billion USD to purchase the steelmaker, it failed to deposit the required $56.3 million USD seriousness guarantee by the October 13 deadline. Instead, the bidder reportedly deposited only 5,000 Mexican pesos.

Judge Ruth Haggi Huerta García, head of the Second District Court in Bankruptcy Matters, rejected a request for a 90-day extension and ordered the FGR to investigate potential crimes regarding false statements under the Federal Penal Code. The judge noted the action showed a lack of formality and bad faith, undermining the principles of the bankruptcy proceedings.

The news has caused significant frustration and uncertainty among workers and residents in Monclova, Coahuila. Social media discussions reflect growing skepticism and exhaustion regarding the company's future and the credibility of official communications following the failed bid.