Johana Núñez ordered into preventive detention for alleged illicit enrichment

An anti-corruption judge in Pichincha has ordered preventive detention for Johana Núñez, the prefect of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas, regarding allegations of illicit enrichment.

The judicial decision follows a hearing requested by the State Attorney General's Office. Prosecutors presented evidence of unjustified increases in Núñez's assets and resources during her tenure as prefect, citing inconsistencies in her sworn asset declarations.

In addition to the detention, the judge imposed several financial sanctions, including the freezing of $309,646 in bank accounts and a prohibition on the sale or transfer of real estate and other assets registered under her name. Three co-investigated individuals were not processed during this proceeding due to electoral immunity held as pre-candidates for the upcoming November 29 elections.