Former Governor Aguirre Detained in Ayotzinapa Case, Faces Forced Disappearance Charges

Ángel Aguirre Rivero, the former governor of Guerrero, has been ordered into preventive detention in connection with the Ayotzinapa case, facing accusations of complicity in the forced disappearance of 43 students. The judge dictated the pre-trial detention, meaning Aguirre will remain at the Altiplano maximum-security prison in the State of Mexico.

Aguirre appeared before a control judge in a wheelchair, still wearing civilian clothes. The Attorney General's Office (FGR) has charged him with the destruction of videos related to the detention of a group of students outside the Iguala Justice Palace. During the hearing, Aguirre Rivero asserted his innocence, stating, "I have my conscience clear and very at peace."

He further declared that he had "absolutely nothing to do with the events" surrounding the disappearance of the 43 students on September 26 and 27, 2014. Aguirre expressed surprise at his arrest, noting that he had always appeared when summoned and had never refused to cooperate. "I have manifested my desire to collaborate. I have never hidden," he stated.

Aguirre's defense team argued for house arrest, citing his health issues, including hypertension, prostate problems, and early-stage diabetes, as well as his established residency. However, the judge determined that Aguirre posed an evasion risk, citing his multiple residences in Mexico City and attempts by his escorts to prevent his apprehension. The prosecution argued that the former governor has four homes in the capital and that his security detail tried to obstruct his arrest.

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He manifestado mi deseo de colaborar. Nunca me he escondido