Interpol has registered details of 10 Nicaraguan officials, including President Ortega, wanted by Argentina for human rights violations. Prosecutor Eduardo Taiano confirmed these officials could face arrest if they leave Nicaragua, while the legal proceedings follow Argentina’s “universal jurisdiction” principles. Key evidence for the case includes testimonies from victims and reports from international human rights organizations.
Interpol, the International Criminal Police Organization, has registered information regarding 10 high-ranking Nicaraguan officials sought by Argentina due to human rights violations. These individuals are part of a broader investigation which also encompasses President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo. Prosecutor Eduardo Taiano confirmed this update following discussions in San Jose, Costa Rica.
Federal judge Ariel Lijo issued the arrest order that includes 18 Nicaraguans linked to the serious human rights abuses in Nicaragua during 2018. The officials named include:
1. General Julio Cesar Aviles Castillo – alleged to have supplied weapons to paramilitary groups.
2. Francisco Díaz Madriz – in charge of the National Police responsible for multiple human rights violations.
3. Nestor Moncada Lau – presidential advisor implicated in identifying dissidents.
4. Oscar Mojica Obregon – responsible for implementing repressive measures against opposition.
5. Gustavo Porras Cortes – involved in suppressing protests in April 2018.
6. Several other high-ranking officials associated with the Ortega regime.
Taiano mentioned that while an arrest alert is in place, it is challenging for these individuals to travel abroad. However, if they do make international trips, they could be apprehended. The prosecution emphasizes that they are not actively pursuing individuals—merely awaiting the opportunity for justice.
The proceedings against Ortega, Murillo, and their associates are grounded in Argentina’s “universal jurisdiction” principle. Following a complaint in August 2022, significant evidence has been compiled, revealing testimonies from various victims and credible witnesses.
Taiano clarified that the Argentine judicial system does not intend to conduct trials in absentia. Should extradition succeed, the trial would be complex, with arguments likely focusing on their Nicaraguan citizenship. If extradited, a statement from the accused would serve as their first defense action in the Argentine legal framework.
To substantiate the case, a collection of seven credible reports from international human rights groups have documented testimonies of repression in Nicaragua since April 2018. Key contributors to this evidence include the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, and more.
Nonetheless, Taiano believes the amassed evidence is sufficient to proceed without awaiting further testimonies. The comprehensive documentation from various organizations supports the accusations against the Nicaraguan officials for their roles in the alleged atrocities committed against their citizens.
In summary, Interpol has formally recognized and provided critical information on 10 Nicaraguan officials linked to human rights abuses sought by Argentina. The intricate legal processes surrounding this case reflect Argentina’s commitment to addressing violations through international cooperation. The documentation accumulated from various credible sources reinforces the claims, paving the way for potential legal accountability of the accused officials within Argentina’s judicial framework.
Original Source: havanatimes.org
