Huila, Colombia – A major corruption scandal has erupted in Pitalito, Huila, with 14 individuals, including employees from the Institute of Transit and Transportation of Pitalito (Intrapitalito), now facing serious charges. The group, accused of orchestrating fraudulent schemes to manipulate traffic fines and issue illegal documents, has been placed under court orders following an extensive investigation by the Gaula military and the CTI. The primary suspects, including former Intrapitalito director William Ivan Rojas Giraldo, are said to have exploited their positions to benefit financially from various unlawful activities.
Inside the Fraudulent Operations: A Criminal Network Unveiled
The group, known locally as the “Pitatoto,” is accused of exploiting the internal systems of Intrapitalito to erase or modify traffic violations in exchange for substantial payments. Using their access, they allegedly tampered with the digital records of fines and penalties to favor certain drivers. These fraudulent modifications provided substantial savings for the offenders, who would otherwise face significant penalties.
The Method Behind the Crimes: Selling Spare Parts and Forged Documents
Beyond tampering with traffic records, the group also engaged in selling vehicle parts that were discreetly removed from impounded motorcycles and cars. These parts were sold on the streets without any official documentation of their origin or destination, further enriching the criminal network. Additionally, the group is accused of selling decommissioned vehicle plates to third parties and using these transactions to falsify records and shield offenders from legal consequences.
Key Figure Resigns Amid Scandal: William Iván Rojas Giraldo Steps Down
Among those implicated is William Ivan Rojas Giraldo, former director of Intrapitalito and recent manager of the Strategic Public Transportation System of Neiva (SETP). Following the emergence of these allegations, Rojas Giraldo resigned from his position in Neiva, a move that local authorities say was motivated by the unfolding scandal.
Caught Red-Handed: Operation Results in Multiple Arrests and Seizures
The meticulous operation, led by the Gaula military of the Sixth Brigade and personnel from the CTI, lasted several months and was based on numerous citizen complaints and collected evidence. The raid resulted in 14 arrests and the seizure of various items, including 13 cell phones, 12 USB drives, 29 hard drives, a computer, 100 blank license cards, 60 vehicle plates, and an industrial-grade cutting machine. The group is also accused of issuing illegal driving licenses and registrations for construction machinery.
Bold and Brazen: How the Group Deceived Citizens
The “Pitatoto” reportedly used multiple strategies to scam citizens, including impersonating transit agents and contractors. They would lure unsuspecting victims to secluded locations at night, demanding between 100,000 and 1,000,000 pesos for fraudulent services that never materialized. According to Colonel Henry Herrera Arenas, commander of the Ninth Brigade, the criminal group specialized in “offering services that were ultimately scams.”
Legal Proceedings and Charges: Facing Justice for Corruption and Fraud
All suspects have been placed under the authority of the Public Prosecutor’s Office and will face a judge on charges including theft, conspiracy to commit a crime, extortion, embezzlement, and falsification of public documents. The legal process will unfold as the public awaits justice for what has become one of the most significant corruption scandals in the region’s history.
Public Outcry: Citizens Demand Accountability and Transparency
The investigation was driven largely by courageous citizens who reported their experiences to authorities. According to the Gaula military, “Valiant citizens presented the complaints that made this operation possible.” The scandal has triggered widespread outrage, with local communities calling for greater transparency and accountability within government institutions.
The Road Ahead: Reforms and Vigilance Expected in Huila’s Transit System
With the revelation of this extensive corruption network, there are growing calls for reforms in the region’s transit systems. Many in Huila hope for increased oversight and new measures to prevent future abuses. The scandal serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and integrity in public service.
