Venezuelan authorities discovered a money laundering network allegedly involving some of the country’s top politicians who sought to legitimize Colombian and U.S. drug profits.
The network, which includes the secretary of the opposition party, was allegedly “committed to launder $2 million,” although evidence suggests the total might be closer to $10 million, according to Venezuela’s Minister of the Interior, Tareck Al Aissami.
“This network operated from several states in the country and used several companies and individuals who served as a cover to legitimize these currencies by introducing bolivars [Venezuela’s currency] from illegal markets into the national economic system,” said Al Aissami.
Five people involved in the scandal have been arrested and warrants have been issued for the owners of the companies allegedly involved in the laundering scheme.