Child protection investigations in Potosí

Authorities in Potosí, Bolivia, have launched investigations into separate incidents involving the potential exploitation and mistreatment of minors.

Initially, police and the Defensoría de la Niñez y Adolescencia intervened to investigate the suspected exploitation of Ayoreo people. This investigation follows reports of a group, including children and elderly individuals, being used for street begging after arriving from Santa Cruz. Officials are working to determine if the group was victims of human trafficking.

Subsequently, the Public Prosecutor’s Office opened an investigation into allegations of minor corruption during the Ñusta de Ch’utillos 2026 pageant. The complaint, filed by the Potosí Children and Adolescent Defense Office against the Asociación de Fraternidades Folclóricas Autóctonas de Potosí (AFFAP), alleges that underage participants were exposed in ways that violated their rights through inappropriate clothing requirements. The investigation also includes allegations of document manipulation regarding parental signatures.