Argentine corruption probe suggests intermediaries took 20% in kickbacks from agency contracts

A judicial investigation into alleged corruption at Argentina's National Disability Agency (Andis) has uncovered evidence suggesting intermediaries pocketed as much as 20% of contract values through kickbacks. The probe has identified significant overlaps between the agency's purchases and the records of a lobbyist suspected of retaining a fifth of the money due to contractors in exchange for their participation in tenders.

LA NACION obtained payment certificates from the agency that show striking similarities in dates and amounts to three files within the case. For instance, on June 30, 2025, Andis issued two payment certificates to "Artrobone Ortopedia S.A." for $17 million and $16 million respectively. Eight days later, the company's owner sent Miguel Ángel Calvete, an individual with no official ties to the firm or public office, a table detailing "Artrobone," the two figures ($17,000,000 and $16,000,000), and a line item "Miguel $6,600,000," which represents 20% of the total.

Further evidence includes messages from a former Andis official, Daniel Garbellini, to Calvete, referring to "your offerings this week" and accompanying a table of 10 state contractors totaling $2021 million. On the same day, Andis issued 16 payment certificates to these same companies, matching the total amount. Three of these companies were also named in a Ministry of Health document that detected alleged overpricing of up to 4239% for wheelchairs and prosthetics, including Artrobone.

The investigation, overseen by Judge Ariel Lijo and Prosecutor Franco Picardi, is examining these documents and messages for "true meaning" as evidence of alleged collusion between officials and businesses. This alleged scheme facilitated restricted tenders and potential "returns." Calvete is described as a "permanent link between ANDIS and the firms, collecting between 12% and 20% of the awarded contracts." The defense for former Andis head Diego Spagnuolo denies his involvement, stating he did not know suppliers or communicate with them.