Baja California governor files complaint over leaked audio, accuses ex-governor of ambush

Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda has filed a formal complaint against those responsible for leaking audio recordings in which she discusses her U.S. visa and alleged intermediaries with the FBI. She directly accused her predecessor, Jaime Bonilla, of orchestrating an "ambush" to capture the conversations, claiming he offered assistance to help her recover the travel document.

In an interview, Ávila Olmeda explained that the leaked audio stems from discussions about her visa, which was canceled for her and her ex-husband in May 2025. She asserted that the conversations were solely focused on recovering the visa, which she believed was canceled without clear explanation. The governor detailed how Bonilla allegedly recommended an individual, whom she suspected was an external advisor possibly linked to agencies like the FBI or HSI. She felt trapped when the conversation shifted to potential charges, sanctions, and extradition.

Ávila Olmeda described the encounter as a "psychological ambush," stating she was caught off guard and felt intimidated. She emphasized that she accepted Bonilla's offer of help in good faith, particularly after a meeting in summer 2025 where he offered assistance. The governor indicated that the discussion about potential criminal charges and extradition, which occurred in mid-December 2025, caused her significant distress, particularly concerning her children.

The governor's strained relationship with Bonilla, marked by disputes since 2022 over a canceled contract, has resurfaced with this incident. Despite temporary political truces, the visa issue has reignited their animosity. Ávila Olmeda stated that she cannot reveal the identity of the advisor Bonilla recommended because a formal complaint has been filed, though she did not specify the authority. The complaint targets potential offenses including intimidation and violation, as she felt vulnerable and unprepared during the recorded conversation.