Guatemala’s police conducted raids on five regional offices of a leading aid agency on Monday as investigations into alleged child abuse unfolded.
Prosecutors have sought information from U.S. authorities since April regarding possible involvement by the organization in child smuggling across borders, according to local reports.
The organization confirmed its awareness of the police actions and has denied the allegations made by the prosecutors.
The lead prosecutor, Rafael Curruchiche, along with the attorney general, Consuelo Porras, have faced sanctions from both the United States and the European Union for their actions reportedly aimed at undermining democratic processes.
In a video statement, Curruchiche described the searches as part of a significant transnational investigation.
Though the prosecutor did not mention the organization’s name directly, a spokesperson confirmed the targeted offices belonged to it.
In a response, the organization stated its commitment to cooperating with authorities, asserting it has “never facilitated any transfer of children or adolescents out of Guatemala.”
The group noted that prior allegations made earlier this year did not yield any evidence of misconduct.
Earlier, the aid agency expressed shock following a raid at its main office as part of the same investigation.
This incident took place shortly after a government official reached out to authorities in Texas for assistance in investigating claims of aid organizations possibly involved in child trafficking.
It remains unclear if there has been a response from Texas authorities regarding this request.
Both officials involved have been previously criticized for their alleged efforts to obstruct anti-corruption initiatives within the nation. The prosecutor’s office has denied these accusations.
Additionally, there were attempts made to inhibit President Bernardo Arévalo, who was elected on an anti-corruption platform, from assuming his office.
The attorney general was banned from entering the U.S. in 2022 due to allegations of interfering with anti-corruption investigations, which she has denied.
Having operated in Guatemala since 1976, the organization emphasized it would continue its mission to uphold children’s rights and maintain the highest standards of child protection in all programs.
