Córdoba Security Minister: Suspect in Agostina Vega Disappearance Lied Constantly

The investigation into the disappearance of 14-year-old Agostina Vega in Córdoba has taken a sharp turn, with the provincial Security Minister, Juan Pablo Quinteros, directly accusing the sole suspect, Claudio Barrelier, of persistent deception.

Quinteros, speaking on LN+, detailed how Barrelier's statements have been systematically contradicted by evidence. The minister highlighted specific instances where Barrelier allegedly misled authorities, including claims that Vega arrived and left in another vehicle, and that she was not Vega but his own daughter. "Barrelier clearly lies in his statements," Quinteros asserted, emphasizing that both the judiciary and police have identified numerous falsehoods in the suspect's account.

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Barrelier clearly lies in his statements.

The minister confirmed that the presence of Vega in Barrelier's home is beyond doubt, a fact corroborated by both the Security Ministry and the Prosecutor's Office. Quinteros believes the suspect's defense strategy is crumbling under the weight of overwhelming evidence. "When a suspect feels cornered by overwhelming evidence, it is very difficult for them to keep lying because they have no other alibi to present. He ended up cornered," the official stated.

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We are certain that, after Agostina's disappearance, that vehicle was washed.

Regarding the technical investigation at Barrelier's home and in a Ford Ka vehicle, Quinteros revealed, "We are certain that, after Agostina's disappearance, that vehicle was washed." He also addressed a potential video showing Vega leaving the house, stating that while they are evaluating all evidence to incriminate the suspect, they have no knowledge of such a video. The minister clarified his role, noting he does not have access to all evidence but works to gather it.

When questioned about a search conducted in a vacant lot, Quinteros admitted, "If we are working on a vacant lot, the hypothesis is obviously negative: it is the search for a body." He also noted that the possibility of a third party's involvement has never been ruled out.

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If we are working on a vacant lot, the hypothesis is obviously negative: it is the search for a body.