Machala Mayor and Wife Face Charges for Alleged Illicit Enrichment

Machala Mayor Darío Macas and his wife, Carmen Ch., appeared in a telematic hearing Tuesday to face charges of alleged illicit enrichment. The Prosecutor's Office is investigating a suspected unexplained increase in their assets totaling approximately six million dollars between 2019 and 2025.

The couple was detained Monday during an operation in El Oro province. This marks a significant step in the ongoing investigation. Interior Minister John Reimberg confirmed the arrests, stating the operation uncovered a suspected asset increase linked to family businesses, some of which are believed to be shell companies.

The investigation, which began in June 2026, has been analyzing the mayor's financial activities and business dealings for over a year. Macas' wife, Carmen Ch., and a close friend, Andrea I., were also detained. The Prosecutor's Office alleges the couple's unexplained wealth accumulation is close to six million dollars.

Authorities presented evidence including transactions totaling six million dollars that allegedly passed through shell companies. One identified company, in which Macas holds a 90% stake, provides services to the Municipality of Machala. Additional evidence includes cash withdrawals and checks totaling around $750,000, along with deposits between $400,000 and $500,000.

The Financial and Economic Analysis Unit (UAFE) reported a suspected criminal economic structure connected to Macas, who has served as mayor since 2019. Financial analysis revealed high-risk indicators, including a 74% increase in Macas' income since 2020, coinciding with his mayoral term. The UAFE also noted that 87% of his account deposits were in cash.

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the operation allowed identifying a supposed patrimonial increase linked to family companies.