On September 29, 2025, the Office of the Attorney General requested pretrial detention for the mayor of Guayaquil, Aquiles Álvarez, and a former manager, during the hearing to review precautionary measures in the Triple A Case.
According to the Office of the Attorney General, both defendants failed to comply with the periodic reporting measures that had been imposed on them. The request was submitted to the court during the hearing held this morning at the North Judicial Complex in Quito.
Álvarez justified his absence from a summons on September 1 by claiming that he traveled to Quito for a security meeting with national authorities. He stated that if they want to imprison him, "let them do it," and described the process as apolitical persecution.
Caso Triple AAA
The Triple A Case investigates an alleged network for the illegal commercialization of subsidized fuels that reportedly involved six companies and 16 individuals, including the mayor. The investigation dates back to 2023 and has accumulated financial and operational evidence against those involved.
In July 2025, a judge admitted the indictment after considering that there was sufficient evidence to proceed, and ordered that Álvarez wear an electronic ankle monitor as a precautionary measure. He has previously reported that this case has political motivations.
In addition to Álvarez, the Office of the Attorney General requests a review of the measure against the former manager and accountant of one of the investigated companies, whom it accuses of managing the finances of the illegal distribution network.
In conclusion, the request for pretrial detention by the Office of the Attorney General marks a critical point in the Triple A Case proceedings. If granted, the mayor will have to respond while in custody as the investigation progresses; if denied, he will face stricter judicial control conditions.
