Paraguay's Attorney General seeks increased security for prosecutors after ex-minister's threats

Paraguay's Attorney General, Emiliano Rolón, has urged the Supreme Court of Justice and national authorities to bolster security measures for prosecutors, particularly those involved in oral and public trials. The appeal covers security during hearings, commutes, and within the Palace of Justice itself.

The Public Ministry emphasized the necessity of ensuring adequate safety conditions for the free exercise of prosecutorial duties, especially in the face of threats, intimidation, or harassment. This call for heightened security comes after the Association of Prosecutors of Paraguay formally requested urgent protective measures for prosecutors Verónica Valdez and Jorge Arce.

Valdez and Arce are investigating a bribery case involving former minister Arnaldo Giuzzio. The prosecutors' association stated that Giuzzio allegedly issued direct threats against the two officials after a court session concluded. This incident was reportedly recorded.

Giuzzio, however, denies making threats, characterizing his actions as a "strong and firm" complaint regarding the lack of progress in investigations against Horacio Cartes. He also noted that Arce is part of the team investigating alleged leaks from the Secretariat of Prevention of Money Laundred (Seprelad), a case that also implicates former ministers from the government of Mario Abdo Benítez. Giuzzio stated he has no objection to being investigated, provided the same scrutiny is applied to other political figures.