Paraguay former president’s mansion raided in ongoing investigation

Police in Paraguay raided the home of ex-President Santiago Pena on November 8, 2026, as part of an investigation into a banking crisis that led to his dismissal from office and criminal charges against him. Authorities had previously intervened to seize Ueno Bank, which held accounts for nearly half of Paraguay’s 6.5 million people and over $800 million in government funds, leading to its collapse and street protests. Pena is accused of using his presidential influence to steer millions from government entities into Ueno Bank despite being warned about questionable loans and solvency issues. The raid on his mansion outside Asuncion was conducted as part of the probe, which also revealed that he received two loans totaling around $500,000 from the bank in 2024 to build his house. Pena now faces custody at a military facility while prosecutors continue their investigation.