Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
The investigation into the kidnapping and murder of former Venezuelan military officer Ronald Ojeda has taken a significant turn in recent days. In a massive operation carried out by Chilean authorities, they managed to dismantle the cell known as “Los Piratas,” linked to multiple crimes in the region. This police deployment resulted in the arrest of six members of the organization, among whom stands out a protected witness who has provided crucial information about the political connections surrounding this case. The testimony of Julio Iglesias, one of the detainees, has been fundamental in understanding the magnitude of the plot. Iglesias, who was responsible for supplying the vehicles used in the crimes of “Los Piratas,” claims that the order to murder Ojeda was issued by Diosdado Cabello, a high-ranking Venezuelan official. According to his statement, the instruction for the murder was channeled through an individual known as Niño Guerrero, which elevates the case to a level of high-profile complicity. Chile’s National Prosecutor, Ángel Valencia, corroborated the information and indicated that there are at least three people who have testified about the link between the crime and Venezuelan authorities. “There are very solid grounds in the investigation file to understand that this is a kidnapping with homicide for hire, with political motivations,” Valencia declared, emphasizing the seriousness of the implications of this case. Interior Minister Carolina Tohá quickly reacted to this revelation, describing Diosdado Cabello's connection to the crime as of “enormous gravity.” Tohá indicated that, if confirmed, the Chilean government would be willing to take the case to the International Criminal Court, which could have significant diplomatic repercussions between the two countries. The “Los Piratas” cell has been under investigation for some time and is linked to at least ten cases of kidnappings, murders, and extortion in Chile. The death of Ronald Ojeda, a former lieutenant of the Venezuelan police, has brought attention to this organization, which is also connected to the murder of Carabineros lieutenant Emmanuel Sánchez, which occurred in April 2024. With the recent arrests, authorities have begun to unravel the criminal structure operating in the country. Héctor Barros, the prosecutor in charge of the case, has revealed that they have identified 23 individuals associated with “Los Piratas,” and 16 of them are specifically linked to Ojeda's case. The organization is reportedly led by an individual nicknamed “El Turco,” who was captured in the United States at the end of December 2023. Barros has also noted that there are multiple outstanding arrest warrants and that international cooperation will be key to bringing all those involved to justice. “El Turco,” whose real name is Rafael Gámez, is considered one of the leaders of the cell. Although he is not a direct material author of Ojeda's murder, he is attributed with managing and ordering criminal operations from his position abroad. His capture for a human trafficking offense in the United States has complicated his extradition, but Chilean authorities are actively working on it. The impact of this case extends beyond the borders of Chile and Venezuela. The possible implication of a high-ranking official like Diosdado Cabello could have significant diplomatic and legal consequences. Chilean authorities have shown a firm commitment to seeking justice, raising expectations about how the investigation will unfold and what measures they will take at the international level. This case has highlighted the phenomenon of organized crime affecting the region and the need for a coordinated response among countries. The existence of cells like “Los Piratas” not only poses a challenge for law enforcement but also underscores the complexity of the criminal networks operating in tumultuous political contexts. Resolving this case could be a crucial step in the fight against impunity and transnational crime in Latin America. As the investigation progresses, the eyes of the international community will be on Chile, watching how authorities handle the delicate political implications and upcoming extradition challenges. The possibility that a crime of such magnitude has roots in the structures of Venezuelan power raises questions about security and justice in the region, and the commitment of governments to confront such situations.