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Bolivia Detains Ex‑President Luis Arce Over Alleged $700 Million Social‑Fund Diversion

The Paz administration presents the detention as the opening act of an anti‑corruption drive.

Overview

  • A special anti‑corruption police unit confirmed the arrest after Vice President Edmand Lara announced it in a TikTok video.
  • Government officials allege Arce and other former officials diverted about $700 million from a fund intended for indigenous communities and small farmers during his time as economy minister.
  • Lara praised the operation, said Arce was “just the beginning,” and closed with the phrase “Death to the corrupt.”
  • MAS allies, including María Nela Prada, denounce the case as politically motivated and claim he was seized without a warrant and initially held at an undisclosed location.
  • Authorities signal more high‑level prosecutions, while evidence reviews and potential charges in Arce’s case remain in progress.