Money laundering: Mexico probes ex-president Pena Nieto

Mexico has commenced a probe of former President Enrique Pena Nieto for alleged money laundering, illicit enrichment, and illegal international transfers.

Mexico’s Attorney General’s office (FGR) said it is developing investigation procedures into various federal crimes related to Spanish construction company OHL.

The FGR said the investigations into money laundering and illegal international transfers stemmed from complaints by tax authorities.

Pena Nieto has not been charged with a crime.

In 2016, the Mexican unit of OHL was fined for inadequacies in its financial reporting. The company said then that there was no evidence of fraud.

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OHL Mexico was also hit by corruption allegations over leaked recordings in which its executives appeared to be discussing overcharging the government for a highway concession.

In July, Mexico’s anti-money laundering unit asked the FGR to investigate millions of dollars worth of money transfers abroad addressed to Pena Nieto.

Responding to the accusations in a series of tweets Pena Nieto said, “I am certain that before the competent authorities I will be allowed to clarify any question about my assets and demonstrate their legality.”

Enrique Pena Nieto was Mexico’s president from 2012 to 2016.

Zainab Sa’id