Hidalgo Mayor Denounces $100 Million Financial Shortfall, Files Eight Lawsuits Over Irregularities

Félix Ávila, the mayor of Tepeapulco, Hidalgo, has reported a significant financial shortfall of around 100 million pesos, stemming from alleged irregularities during the previous municipal administration. Ávila, who took office seven months ago following the death of Mayor Alfredo González Quiroz, stated that equipment and vehicles purchased by his predecessor cannot be located.

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Between the alleged irregularities is the acquisition of: A vactor truck, garbage collection units, large drones, body cameras for public security officers.

An audit of the municipal accounts revealed anomalies related to both González Quiroz's administration and that of former mayor Marisol Ortega López. Among the missing items are a vactor truck, garbage collection units, large drones, and body cameras for public security officers. These acquisitions reportedly amounted to 28 million pesos, with suspicions of inflated prices.

Mayor Ávila confirmed that these assets are not part of the municipal inventory, prompting legal action. A complaint has been filed with the Attorney General's Office, and an audit is underway to determine responsibility. While authorities will ultimately decide culpability, at least seven former public servants have been dismissed and may be connected to the alleged misconduct.

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In that case, 28 million pesos were allocated for the purchase of these goods, which, moreover, allegedly had inflated prices.

Despite the passing of Alfredo González Quiroz, the investigations are expected to proceed, as other public servants were involved in the administrative processes and documentation. Ávila assured that his administration would cooperate fully with investigative bodies. In total, eight legal complaints have been lodged concerning the alleged financial mismanagement, which collectively points to a deficit of approximately 100 million pesos.

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These assets are not within the City Council's assets, for which a complaint has been filed with the Attorney General's Office, as well as an audit to determine responsibilities.