Mexico arrests ex-Pemex chief's sister in money laundering probe

Mexican federal agents arrested Gilda Lozoya, sister of former Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) director Emilio Lozoya, on Thursday. The Attorney General's Office (FGR) stated she is accused of illicit financial transactions and her alleged participation in the Agronitrogenados corruption case.

The case stems from a 2014 transaction where Pemex purchased the Agronitrogenados fertilizer plant from Altos Hornos de México (AHMSA) during Emilio Lozoya's tenure. The FGR alleges the operation involved overpricing and a scheme of bribes and money laundering.

Agents apprehended Gilda Lozoya near Mexico City's international airport. The FGR indicated she likely acted as a front "to cover up acts of corruption and launder illicitly obtained funds." The investigation links her to the case, suggesting she may have become a beneficiary of a company through rights transferred by Emilio Lozoya.

She has been placed at the disposal of a federal judge. Meanwhile, Emilio Lozoya remains under house arrest, facing separate charges in the Agronitrogenados and Odebrecht cases.