Juan Carlos Espinoza dies during detention in 'maletas' case

Juan Carlos Espinoza Vaca, a key figure in the “maletas” (suitcases) investigation, died on Monday, September 28, while under preventive detention in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Espinoza was being held at the Palmasola prison and was the only individual remaining in custody related to the case.

According to prison authorities and human rights representatives, Espinoza was evacuated from Palmasola to the Hospital Francés due to health complications. He reportedly suffered from underlying conditions, including diabetes and tuberculosis. While unofficial reports suggested a cardiac arrest, the exact cause of death has not yet been officially established.

Espinoza was facing charges of controlled substance trafficking, conspiracy, and criminal association. He served as the legal representative for the Empresa Boliviana de Seguridad (EBOCE), a security firm linked to former judge Hebert Zeballos. The investigation into the “maletas” case follows an incident at Viru Viru International Airport and subsequent searches of EBOCE facilities, where authorities reportedly discovered approximately 80 kilograms of marijuana and equipment used for processing controlled substances.