Colombian prosecutor seizes singer Charlie Zaa's family properties amid illicit funds probe

Colombian prosecutors have seized four properties belonging to the family of popular singer Charlie Zaa as part of an investigation into alleged links with illicit funds from the Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia (AUC) paramilitary group. The seized assets, which include a shopping center, two nightclubs, and a hotel located in Girardot and Ibagué, are valued at over 45.4 billion Colombian pesos (approximately $14.1 million USD).

The Prosecutor General's Office stated that the investigation seeks to verify if these properties were acquired through third parties acting on behalf of Diego José Martínez Goyeneche, also known as alias 'Daniel,' a former commander of the AUC's Tolima Bloc. The objective is to uncover whether these investments were used to conceal the illicit origin of the funds.

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The measures known to the public correspond to an initial stage of the process, in which the defense is just beginning to fully exercise its right to present the evidence that will demonstrate the completely lawful origin of our assets.

Charlie Zaa, whose real name is Carlos Alberto Sánchez Ramírez, responded to the seizure through a statement, asserting his confidence in the legal process and the legitimate origin of his family's wealth. He emphasized that there is no final ruling against him or a definitive asset forfeiture decision, urging against premature judgments.

"The measures known to the public correspond to an initial stage of the process, in which the defense is just beginning to fully exercise its right to present the evidence that will demonstrate the completely lawful origin of our assets," Zaa stated. He added that he has always cooperated transparently with authorities and will continue to do so, trusting in due process and the presumption of innocence.

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I have always appeared before the authorities with complete transparency and will continue to cooperate with Colombian justice whenever required. I have full confidence in due process, in the presumption of innocence, and that it will be the evidence, and not the headlines, that will establish the truth.