Argentine Judge Admits New Evidence in Probe Against ARCA Chief for Financial Crimes

In a significant development in Argentina's fight against financial crime, a federal judge has authorized new investigative measures against Andrés Vázquez, the head of the Agencia de Recaudación y Control Aduanero (ARCA). The probe, which includes allegations of illicit enrichment, money laundering, and tax evasion, will now proceed with a broader scope, incorporating evidence gathered by the Procuraduría de Investigaciones Administrativas (PIA).

The newly admitted evidence involves a dozen requests to various public and private organizations within Argentina, as well as international requests for information. A key focus is the consulting firm Consultora San Andrés, suspected of being a shell company, and the alleged undervaluation of a luxury triplex in the prestigious Los Molinos Building in Puerto Madero. The investigation also seeks to trace the flow of funds between Argentina, Miami, and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the transnational nature of modern financial crimes.

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Andrés Edgardo Vázquez incurred the crime of omission of data in the patrimonial affidavit.

This judicial decision contrasts sharply with previous government statements that suggested Vázquez had already been cleared in this case. The PIA, however, maintains that Vázquez failed to declare significant assets, including at least three apartments in Miami valued at US$2.1 million. The investigation, which began in late 2024, aims to uncover whether Vázquez committed multiple offenses by acquiring and managing these undeclared properties. The inclusion of new evidence and the judge's decision to proceed signal a determined effort by the judiciary to pursue financial accountability, regardless of political affiliations or previous assertions of innocence. For Argentinians, this case touches upon deep-seated concerns about corruption and the illicit flow of capital abroad, making the thoroughness of the investigation a matter of public interest.

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Vázquez had already been cleared in this case and that it is a 'res judicata'.