Paraguay: prosecutors raid Horqueta institute over complaints of irregular academic degrees
Former students complained of alleged irregularities in the degrees issued by a technical institute in Concepción department. Documents and computers were seized; no one has been charged.
Prosecutors in Paraguay raided a private technical institute in the town of Horqueta, in Concepción department, on 31 October as part of a fraud investigation into how it issued academic degrees, ABC Color and El Nacional reported.
The raid on the Instituto Tecnico Superior San Expedito was led by prosecutor Claudia Huespe Garcia. El Nacional reported that officers from the National Police's economic and financial crimes directorate and the Concepción criminalistics department took part.
What prompted the raid
The investigation began with complaints from former students, who say they were harmed in connection with the institute's academic activities. ABC Color said the case is being investigated as a possible fraud (estafa) involving the issuing of degrees.
Investigators seized documents and computer equipment. According to ABC Color, the Public Ministry said the material could be related to the matter under investigation. El Nacional said the items will be analysed to determine whether degrees were issued irregularly.
Status
Both outlets described the investigation as being at an early stage. No one has been charged and no findings have been announced. Prosecutors said they are continuing inquiries to establish the facts and identify anyone who may be responsible. The institute has not been found to have committed any offence.
The raid comes amid wider scrutiny of degrees in Paraguay. EFC reported last month that the country's audit office had found 1,090 degrees held by public officials that the issuing universities did not back. The Horqueta case is a separate investigation.
Advice for students
Before enrolling, students can check that an institute and its specific programme are authorised by the national education authority, ask how degrees are registered with the state, and keep copies of all enrolment and payment records. Former students who doubt a qualification should ask the education ministry to confirm whether it is registered.
This News Desk report summarises information published by the sources above, written in our own words. Persons named in criminal matters are accused, not convicted, unless a court has ruled otherwise. To report an error, use our contact page.
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