Trial for ex-Detave chief and smuggling suspects postponed again

A trial involving the former head of the now-defunct special customs surveillance unit, Detave, and several other individuals accused of a bribery and smuggling scheme has been postponed for the second time. The trial was set to begin on July 1 but was rescheduled to July 8 due to the unexplained absence of a defense lawyer.

General (SR) Ramón Ernesto Benítez Amarilla, who led Detave before its dissolution in 2019 following "Operation Brilliant," is among those facing charges. The alleged criminal organization facilitated the smuggling of goods through a bribery system. The case has already seen the dissolution of Detave itself, highlighting the severity of the accusations.

The specialized economic crimes court, presided over by Judge Karina Cáceres, made the decision to postpone. The prosecution, represented by Belinda Bobadilla Biscouto, agreed with the court's decision, emphasizing the convenience of holding a single trial for all defendants. The defense attorney's absence, despite being notified, has stalled the proceedings, leaving the accused in continued legal limbo.