Paraguay aviation authority: Seized jet legally operated, possibly used by ex-president

The National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics (Dinac) in Paraguay has confirmed that a luxury jet, seized from former Brazilian banker Daniel Vorcaro, was operating legally within the country without any impediments.

Dinac president Nelson Mendoza stated that the Gulfstream jet was "100% in order" and had made flights to Europe, the United States, and Africa using Paraguay as a base. He emphasized that the aircraft and its crew faced no restrictions, even from Brazil, and that its ability to travel to countries with strict aviation controls proved its legal status.

Adding to the controversy, Mendoza indicated that there are indications that former Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes apparently used the jet for a trip to the United States during the World Cup. He noted that passenger lists and flight plans are registered, suggesting this information could be verified.

The jet was seized following a cooperation request from Brazil's Federal Police to Paraguay's National Anti-Drug Secretariat (Senad). However, Dinac clarified that the pilots voluntarily departed with the aircraft to Brasilia after an inter-institutional consultation with Senad, and the crew faced no detention upon arrival in Brazil.

This situation has sparked debate, with Dinac officials urging seriousness and transparency, cautioning against misinterpreting the news for political gain. The revelation about Cartes' alleged use of the jet adds a significant political dimension to the ongoing investigation.

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Un avión escondido no hace vuelos a Estados Unidos, a Francia ni a África. Ni la tripulación ni la aeronave tenían restricción alguna, ni siquiera del Brasil.