The Mayor of Tlalpan, Gaby Osoriodenounced today the existence of a extortion and corruption network that operated in the past administrationseriously affecting merchants and citizens.
During his message on social networks and the mayor’s website, he stressed that transparency and accountability are essential to rebuild trust in local institutions.
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“During the previous Government, literally, an extortion network operated in the mayor’s office, creating ghost files, closing discretionally, asking for bribes for removing stamps and demanding monthly payments to allow the tenants to work. We have documented all of this and we have already filed the corresponding complaints,” said the mayor.
In the delivery-reception process, alarming practices were detected:
* Officials demanded up to 100 thousand pesos to remove closure seals.
* Monthly payments were transferred to personal accounts, but the folders remained open even after victims paid, generating at the very least a significant administrative burden, in addition to perpetuating citizen distrust and
hinder public management.
* 205 invented files were found designed specifically to extort money from
traders.
“They were not isolated cases, but a well-structured system of corruption where officials determined the amount of the so-called bribes depending on the size and line of business of the establishments,” Osorio emphasized.
Complaints to the Prosecutor’s Office
Since the beginning of his administration, Gaby Osorio and his team have presented the necessary evidence and complaints to the Public Servants Prosecutor’s Office, with the firm commitment that these acts will not go unpunished.
“Corruption must never return to Tlalpan. In my government there will be no extortion, because the government is there to serve, not to serve itself,” he declared.
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Call to citizens
The Mayor called on the residents of Tlalpan to join this fight against corruption: “If you were a victim of these violations, I invite you to report them. We already did it. Your participation is key for these officials to face the full weight of the law.”
With these actions, the government of Gaby Osorio reaffirms its commitment to transparency and to the construction of a fair, honest and dignified Tlalpan for all.
EAM
Related
How can communities effectively report corruption and engage with local authorities to promote good governance?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Expert on Corruption in Local Government
Editor: Good afternoon and welcome to this special edition of Time.news. Today, we’re delving into an alarming issue of corruption and extortion within the local government of Tlalpan. Joining me is Dr. Alejandro Ruiz, a renowned expert in political corruption and governance. Dr. Ruiz, thank you for being here.
Dr. Ruiz: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important issue.
Editor: Recently, Mayor Gaby Osorio unveiled a shocking extortion network that allegedly operated during the previous administration. Can you give us an overview of what this entails and its implications for the local community?
Dr. Ruiz: Absolutely. What Mayor Osorio has described paints a troubling picture of governmental malpractice. The existence of an extortion network in the mayor’s office—where officials allegedly solicited bribes for essential services—is a clear violation of public trust. This not only affects the merchants directly targeted but also tarnishes the overall perception of government reliability. The community suffers when trust erodes, leading to less civic engagement and reluctance to collaborate with authorities.
Editor: The mayor mentioned specific practices such as the creation of ghost files and demanding monthly payments to allow businesses to operate. How does this kind of bureaucratic manipulation affect local businesses?
Dr. Ruiz: These practices create an environment of fear and uncertainty for local businesses. When officials can arbitrarily close businesses or impose fees, it stifles entrepreneurship and economic growth. The bribery and extortion undermine fair competition, pushing small and legitimate businesses to the brink while allowing corrupt practices to flourish unchecked. Moreover, businesses burdened by such demands might eventually reduce their contributions to local tax revenues, which in turn affects community programs and services.
Editor: The mayor has highlighted the need for transparency and accountability to rebuild trust. In your view, what measures can be implemented to combat such corruption?
Dr. Ruiz: First and foremost, there needs to be a robust internal auditing mechanism to ensure transparency in government operations. This could include independent oversight bodies that can investigate and report on corruption allegations without bias. Additionally, creating efficient channels for citizens to report corruption anonymously would empower the public to take a stand against corrupt practices. Education on rights and processes in dealing with government agencies is also crucial to empower citizens.
Editor: In the context of the documented evidence that Mayor Osorio has filed complaints based on, what role does this play in potentially reforming the governance culture?
Dr. Ruiz: Documentation is a vital step forward. It not only legitimizes the claims being made but also serves as essential evidence for prosecuting those involved. Once accountability is established, it creates a deterrent effect. If officials know that there are serious consequences for corrupt actions—backed by solid evidence—they might think twice before engaging in such behaviors.
Editor: Lastly, how can the community support these changes and work alongside the mayor’s office to foster a more trustworthy administration?
Dr. Ruiz: Community engagement is crucial. Citizens must remain aware and proactive—attending town hall meetings, voicing concerns, and demanding transparency. They can form coalitions or advocacy groups focused on accountability. Engaging with the media, as you’re doing today, helps amplify their voices. Ultimately, a united front from the community can push both the local government and the authorities to prioritize integrity in their operations.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Ruiz, for your insights. It’s clear that while the challenges are significant, there are pathways to rebuilding trust and promoting transparency in local governance.
Dr. Ruiz: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s vital for the community to stay informed and involved.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Let’s keep the conversation going on how we can all contribute to creating a more just and transparent society. Until next time!