Suspect in Paraguay supermarket robbery and hostage-taking arrested

Paraguayan National Police have apprehended one of the primary suspects in a brazen supermarket robbery and hostage-taking incident that occurred in Itakyry. Willian Fidel Duarte López, known by the alias “Tule,” was arrested Thursday morning at his residence.

The operation, led by prosecutor Fernando Galeano, yielded a significant cache of evidence. Seized items include camouflaged and military-style clothing, jackets, gloves, boots, a bandolier, four pistol holsters, a surveillance camera, and five mobile phones. Investigators are examining these items for further leads in the case.

Duarte López is considered a key figure in the May 21 robbery at the El Campo supermarket, where perpetrators stole approximately 45 million Paraguayan guaranis from the safe, along with other cash and forced bank transfers. During their escape, the criminals took a 15-year-old hostage, who was later released.

Adding to his alleged criminal history, Duarte López was also arrested the previous Sunday for reportedly firing shots at his ex-partner and her current partner. He allegedly confronted police at the station before being subdued. The investigation is ongoing to locate and apprehend two brothers, identified as the Patiño siblings, who are also believed to be involved in the supermarket assault.