Former Chihuahua Governor Detained: Money Laundering Charges Loom

Mexican authorities have detained former Chihuahua Governor César Duarte, preparing to charge him with laundering money embezzled from state resources. Extradited from the U.S. in 2022 for embezzlement, Duarte had been under house arrest. Recent developments see potential new charges approved by U.S. authorities.

Mexican federal authorities have taken former Chihuahua Governor César Duarte into custody, with plans to charge him with laundering money allegedly siphoned from state funds during his tenure. The Attorney General's Office disclosed this information on Monday, setting the stage for a high-profile legal proceeding.

Duarte, initially extradited from the United States in 2022 to face state embezzlement charges, had been under house arrest. The recent detention marks a significant escalation in legal battles for the former governor, as new charges of money laundering have been formally approved, per a communique from the Attorney General's Office.

Lawyers for Duarte, represented by Juan Carlos Mendoza Luján, argue the detention may not be lawful yet are awaiting further details. The case continues to develop amid sharing revelations and judicial maneuvers between Mexican and American authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)