Venezuela Investigates
Military Corruption
CARACAS -Venezuelan
courts are making
progress in clearing up
a case of corruption and
embezzlement worth
$14.50 million,
involving ex Defense
Minister, retired Gen.
Raul Baduel.
Baduel was banned from
leaving the country and
making any remark abut
the case. He has also
been required to appear
before court every 15
days.
He was taken from
Maracay, 186 miles
southwest from the
capital, to the court
handling the case in
Caracas, after refusing
to appear before court
to testify.
Military Attorney, Gen.
Ernesto Cedeno, said the
former minister has been
charged with alleged
robbery of National
Armed Forces funds and
properties during his
term of over four years
at the helm of the
military institution.
In a press conference,
Cedeno said the decision
was taken in the wake of
an investigation
stemming from an
accusation rather than
from political reprisal,
as stated by Baduel, who
assumed opposition
stances after his
retirement.
"According to the
investigation, there are
over $31 billion
bolivars missing (about
$14.50 million), and out
of a sense of justice
and honor, he oughts to
clear up the situation
during his term as
Defense minister,"
stressed Cedeno. |
