Bolivian Government reopens investigation into death of Maletas case suspect

The Bolivian government has announced the reopening of an investigation into the death of Juan Carlos Espinoza Vaca, an individual implicated in the “Maletas” case. Espinoza Vaca died in late September while in custody at the Palmasola prison in Santa Cruz.

While prison authorities previously attributed his death to pre-existing health conditions, including tuberculosis and diabetes, Vice Minister of the Interior Peter Maldonado stated that new elements have raised doubts regarding the circumstances of his passing. Espinoza Vaca was the only person detained in the case, which involves the alleged irregular entry of 31 suitcases containing approximately 80 kilograms of marijuana into the country.

The “Maletas” investigation involves allegations of controlled substance trafficking, conspiracy, and criminal association. Authorities are also looking into links between the deceased and a security company associated with former judge Hebert Zeballos. Furthermore, government officials have made allegations involving former Attorney General Roger Mariaca and former Supreme Court President Romer Saucedo Gómez regarding the facilitation of the illegal luggage.