Prisoner escapes police custody during bank transfer in La Paz

A Bolivian inmate serving pre-trial detention for alleged fraud and forgery has escaped police custody in La Paz. Ángel Benito Mejía Ferrufino, 42, was being transferred to a Banco Unión branch for an authorized procedure when he managed to evade his escort.

According to preliminary reports, Mejía Ferrufino asked to use a public restroom near the intersection of Camacho Avenue and Loayza Street. He seized this opportunity to flee, prompting a nationwide manhunt.

The fugitive has been held since May 20, 2021, by order of the Ninth Criminal Instruction Court of La Paz. He faces charges related to material falsehood, fraud, and multiple fraud victims.

Authorities have disseminated his identity and photograph to aid in his recapture. An internal investigation is underway to determine if the escorting officer was negligent or failed in their duties. Disciplinary or criminal actions may follow if security lapses are confirmed.