APA executives charged with breach of trust in Paraguay

The Paraguayan Public Ministry has charged the president of Autores Paraguayos Asociados (APA), David Herminio Portillo Biancotti, and three other top executives with breach of trust. The investigation follows an audit by the National Directorate of Intellectual Property (DINAPI) regarding the “JOPOI 2025” program.

Prosecutors allege that the officials simulated contracts for Christmas gifts, causing an estimated loss of G. 1,990 million. The scheme reportedly involved using funds intended for social activities and unauthorized use of G. 696,794,530 in interest from Fixed-Term Deposit Certificates (CDA).

Evidence suggests payments were made to a local business, “Despensa Gabrielito,” but the owners of that establishment denied any commercial relationship with APA. The implicated executives include General Director Humberto Victorio Rodas Orué, Financial Director Juan José María Vidal Bonin, and Treasurer Walter Mario Cabrera Martínez. Prosecutors have requested measures such as a prohibition on leaving the country and restrictions on entering APA headquarters.