The sudden death of José Miguel Castro, a key figure in the corruption case against ex-mayor Susana Villarán, raises serious concerns as the trial approaches. Castro, who previously held a municipal position during Villarán’s tenure from 2011 to 2014, was found dead at his home while under house arrest. Prosecutors are investigating his role in accepting bribes amounting to $10 million from prominent Brazilian construction firms.
**Key Witness in Lima Corruption Case Dies Mysteriously Ahead of Trial**
**Key Witness in Lima Corruption Case Dies Mysteriously Ahead of Trial**
A vital witness in a major corruption case involving Lima's former mayor was discovered deceased at his residence just before a critical trial.
As Villarán’s co-defendant and second-in-command within the alleged criminal organization, Castro had been cooperating with investigators prior to his untimely death. Villarán, now 75, has firmly denied that the funds received during her 2013 mayoral campaign were bribes, despite acknowledging their source. The trial is set to begin on September 23, amid ongoing investigations against several former Peruvian officials related to the notorious Odebrecht scandal that has rocked the region.
Concerns about Castro's death are compounded by the backdrop of previous corruption cases in Peru, where other politicians have faced severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and tragic outcomes. This situation elevates the stakes for the impending trial and reflects the pervasive impacts of corruption within Peruvian politics.
Concerns about Castro's death are compounded by the backdrop of previous corruption cases in Peru, where other politicians have faced severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and tragic outcomes. This situation elevates the stakes for the impending trial and reflects the pervasive impacts of corruption within Peruvian politics.
