The son of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Nicolás Petro, has been arrested on charges of money laundering and illicit gains, according to the nation's attorney general. The arrest comes after an investigation was initiated in March following allegations made by Nicolás' ex-wife, Daysuris Vásquez, claiming that he had received money from criminals.
Both Nicolás and Vásquez were detained on Saturday in connection with events that occurred last year, as stated by the attorney general's office. These accusations, involving individuals close to the president, arrive at a critical time as Colombia's new legislative session is commencing, during which Gustavo Petro aims to introduce significant reforms. Furthermore, this scandal could potentially impact the upcoming regional elections in late October, as Petro's party will be contending for the nation's top five mayoralties.
Earlier this year, another investigation was launched into the president's brother, Juan Fernando Petro, for alleged payments received from cocaine traffickers seeking to engage in negotiations with the government. The unfolding events might cast a shadow over President Petro's political agenda and create an atmosphere of uncertainty and doubt regarding his administration's integrity.