Former Mexican Official Simón Levy Arrested in Portugal, faces Extradition to Mexico
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Mexico City is seeking the extradition of Simón Levy, a former government official, after his arrest in Portugal on Tuesday, October 28, for extradition purposes. The arrest follows repeated failures to appear in Mexican court, where he faces charges related to environmental crimes, threats, and property damage.
Arrest Follows Denials and International Collaboration
The arrest of Simón “N” – as he is referred to by the Attorney General’s Office of Mexico City (FGJCDMX) – came after he publicly denied reports of his arrest in a video shared on social media. According to a statement released Wednesday, October 29, the arrest was the result of close collaboration between Mexican and Portuguese authorities, operating under existing judicial agreements and treaties governing criminal cooperation.
Charges in Mexico: Environmental Crimes and Property Disputes
Levy currently faces two separate criminal proceedings in Mexico. The first relates to alleged crimes against the surroundings and the responsibilities of directors in connection with related work.The second involves accusations of threats and intentional damage to other peopel’s property.
A senior official stated that arrest warrants were issued after Levy missed scheduled court hearings in August 2022 and August 2025, effectively nullifying previous legal protections granted to him. In the second case, five additional hearings were missed between December 2021 and October 2022, prompting a separate arrest warrant.
Interpol Involvement and Extradition Process
Following the issuance of the arrest warrants,Mexican authorities activated immigration alerts and requested international cooperation.This led to Interpol issuing a “red card” – an international wanted person notice – to facilitate Levy’s location and eventual transfer to Mexico.
Levy is currently being held under precautionary measures imposed by Portuguese authorities while the extradition process unfolds.He appeared before the Lisbon Court of appeals on wednesday, where he was informed of his rights and indicated his intention to contest the extradition, in accordance with Portuguese law.
Ongoing Coordination and Pursuit of Justice
The Mexico City prosecutor’s office emphasized its ongoing coordination with international authorities to ensure compliance with judicial resolutions and to guarantee that justice is served “with full respect for the rights of the victims.”
The FGJCDMX confirmed that Levy’s arrest occurred following information received from Interpol’s National Central Offices in both Mexico and Portugal.His surrender to Mexican authorities remains contingent on the verification of his national status and the completion of the extradition proceedings.
Expanded News Report – Answering the 5 W’s and H
who: Simón Levy, a former Mexican government official, was arrested. He is referred to as Simón “N” by the Attorney General’s Office of Mexico City (FGJCDMX).
What: Levy faces charges in Mexico related to environmental crimes, threats, and intentional damage to property. He was arrested in Portugal after repeatedly failing to appear in Mexican court.
Why: the arrest was prompted by Levy’s repeated failure to attend scheduled court hearings, leading to the issuance of arrest warrants. Mexican authorities sought international assistance to locate and apprehend him.
How: mexican authorities activated immigration alerts and requested Interpol assistance. Interpol issued a “red card,” leading to Levy’s arrest in Portugal. He is now undergoing extradition proceedings, which he intends
