**Nine Individuals Linked to Process for Photovoltaic Fraud in Bonilla Administration**
**By: TJGringo News Desk, September 11, 2024**
Nine individuals, comprising both public officials and private citizens, have been linked to the fraudulent activities related to the photovoltaic project during the previous administration of Baja California under Jaime Bonilla. According to Juan José Pon Méndez, the legal adviser to the government of Baja California, eight of these individuals have been formally ordered to stand trial. Among them, five are former public servants, and three are private citizens accused of illicit use of attributions and embezzlement.
In addition to these charges, an appeal in June resulted in additional charges of abuse of authority against these individuals. Pon Méndez stated that the former governor is scheduled to appear before the Asset Crimes Investigation Unit in Mexicali at 2:00 PM on Wednesday to continue the legal process.
Pon Méndez also mentioned that the bank involved, AFIRME, has been adamant in seeking repayment of the 4.5 billion pesos that the government has managed to save through various legal actions. Recently, the bank filed for an injunction to force payment, which the state managed to overturn while also securing a requirement for the return of 123 million pesos.
Governor Marina del Pilar criticized the use of public resources to pay a bank for a project that was improperly contracted without necessary federal authorizations. She noted that the contract, which was entered into despite explicit warnings from the former Secretary of Energy, Rocío Nale, compromised federal contributions.
“Simply put,” she said, “they want us to pay with public funds for a photovoltaic plant project authorized improperly, even knowing it would challenge federal laws and regulations.”
Pon Méndez highlighted that state efforts will continue to ensure justice is served and public funds are safeguarded for the people of Baja California.
—
### **Secondary Article: Baja California’s Legal Battles**
**Baja California Fights to Protect Public Funds Amid Legal Fallout**
The administration of Baja California continues its vigorous legal battle to protect state funds after uncovering fraudulent activities associated with the photovoltaic plant project under former Governor Jaime Bonilla. The state has saved over 4.5 billion pesos through legal means and is striving to recuperate 123 million pesos secured through a recent court ruling.
Further complicating the issue, the federal entity AFIRME has been unyielding in its attempts to collect the money tied up in the project, prompting concerns among state officials. Governor Marina del Pilar insists that utilizing public resources to settle these payments is unacceptable and stresses that the state entered into the controversial contract without the requisite federal clearances.
The legal adviser, Juan José Pon Méndez, reiterated that the ongoing legal actions are necessary to protect the financial interests of Baja Californians and ensure accountability for the misuse of public authority and funds.
### **Other Recent News:**
#### **Multiple Investigations into the Death of Minor Kaleb Enrique**
Authorities are exploring several leads following the tragic death of young Kaleb Enrique. The case has garnered significant attention, prompting an exhaustive investigation to uncover the truth behind this unfortunate event.
#### **Continued Unrest in Sinaloa**
Sinaloa witnesses its third day of violence as the local government remains on high alert for potential armed attacks. The situation has escalated, causing widespread concern among residents and officials alike.
#### **U.S. Presidential Debate Acknowledged by Mexican President**
In a recent U.S. presidential debate, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump extended respect towards Mexico, a gesture celebrated by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
#### **Tijuana’s Credit Rating Improvement**
The city of Tijuana’s credit rating has improved following the repayment of municipal debt, as stated by the city’s Treasurer.
#### **No Negotiations with Yunes Family, Says AMLO**
President López Obrador affirmed that no deals were struck with the Yunes family, while the Green Party indicates interest in collaboration.
Stay informed with TJGringo for the latest updates on these developing stories.