Guatemalan MP Raids Properties Linked to Ex-Government Official Miguel Martinez

Guatemala City, Guatemala – The Public Ministry (MP) of Guatemala initiated a series of raids and inspections on properties allegedly linked to Miguel Martinez, the former head of the now-defunct Government Center. The operations, which commenced on Wednesday, July 16, are part of ongoing investigations into potential irregular activities associated with the former official. The MP's Department of Information and Press confirmed that these actions are being carried out by the Special Prosecutor's Office for Asset Forfeiture. The properties subject to these measures reportedly hold a provisional seizure order from a specialized court. Sources indicate that the properties under investigation are valued at approximately 10 million Quetzales and were acquired between 2020 and 2024. This period coincides with the presidency of Alejandro Giammattei, who established the Government Center. While the MP has confirmed the operations, specific details regarding the investigations remain under reserve, and media access to the proceedings has been restricted. The Public Ministry stated that the actions are a direct follow-up to a request presented by the MP within the framework of investigations linking the former official to alleged illicit activities.