Mrs. María Consuelo Porras Argueta, Attorney General of the Republic and Chief of the Public Ministry, held the second meeting with Bloc Leaders and Deputy Leaders of the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala to review and verify the progress made since the first meeting related to combating fraud.

The Attorney General noted that these actions follow an analysis of the work done by the Public Ministry and the proposals and recommendations outlined in Resolution Point 6-2024 of the Congress of the Republic. This resolution addresses the concerning situation of Guatemalan citizens who are vulnerable to entities that, while not financial institutions, exploit their needs by subjecting them to unacceptable conditions.

She stated that significant progress has been made in fighting fraud. «These achievements are a clear testament to our strong and firm commitment as an institution to the Guatemalan people and to the protection of the Rule of Law in our country.»

She also emphasized that this meeting was an opportunity to share current strategies and additional proposals to strengthen the response to the problem. The Attorney General reiterated the Public Ministry’s readiness to work collaboratively for the country’s benefit. «I am convinced that, by working together, we can implement effective solutions that benefit the population, whom we all serve and are dedicated to.»

Among the progress reported by the Attorney General’s team, it was mentioned that the Criminal Analysis Directorate has conducted comprehensive studies on the criminal phenomenon, particularly on crimes committed when individuals are defrauded. The progress also includes creating strategies to prevent and detect fraud and usury, proposals for information exchange with the Special Verification Authority to trace the flow of money, working groups with the Banking Association and the legislature on online fraud, and the creation of an online fraud reporting form on the Public Ministry’s website. Additional efforts include addressing cybersecurity law, providing training through municipal offices on fraud prevention, and participating in a campaign with the banking system.

The Public Ministry is working on initiative 6347 for cybercrime, another initiative to amend the Criminal Code to impose harsher penalties for usury, and efforts to ensure adequate restitution for victims.

Secretary-General Angel Pineda emphasized the importance of these vital cooperation and coordination spaces that allow both institutions to enhance their efforts to serve Guatemalans effectively. «Institutionally, we will continue to work in our role of ensuring strict compliance with the country’s laws, with autonomous functions that promote criminal prosecution and direct public crime investigations.»

The meeting also included participation from various officials and legislative bloc leaders from different political parties.

With these and other actions, the Public Ministry continues to work steadfastly to combat crimes that affect the Guatemalan population daily.

Guatemala, August 26, 2024