Prosecutor's Office investigates alleged loss of USD 100 million in contracts with Progen during the electricity crisis
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The Attorney General's Office carried out 17 raids on July 28, including offices, residences, and thermal power plants linked to the Blackout case. Contracts signed with Progen under an exceptional regime are under investigation.
The main person under investigation is Fabián Calero, former acting general manager of Celec and former Deputy Minister of Electricity, who led the emergency declaration in June 2024.
The Comptroller's Office detected an estimated state loss of USD 100 million: USD 70 million for Salitral and USD 30 million for Quevedo. Both contracts are considered irregular.
Another 11 Celec officials are involved: technicians and executives who participated in technical and contractual processes at the thermal power plants.
CELEC
The individuals under investigation include Gabriela T, Holger J, and Marvin R., technicians responsible for the technical review and planning of the contracts with Progen. Their reports presented key inconsistencies that supported contracting decisions during the electrical emergency.
Senior officials are also implicated, such as Byron O, Elizabeth P, Carlos V, and Christian D. They held positions as managers and deputy managers in various areas of Celec. All of them are believed to have participated in the approval, signing, or endorsement of contracts under an exceptional regime.
So far, there are no formal charges, but dozens of pieces of evidence have been seized: cell phones, hard drives, computers, and digital documentation. The investigation continues under seal.
Amid the efficiency plan promoted by the Government of Daniel Noboa, this case highlights the pressure on public spending and underscores the importance of transparency and oversight in state contracts. Public attention is now focused on how cuts are justified when controversies like this arise.
