Ministry of Sustainable Development and Forestry Investigates Bribery Allegations Against Deputy Forest Officer

The Ministry of Sustainable Development and Forestry is investigating allegations of bribery involving Deputy Forest Officer John Pinelo, following a formal complaint from businessman Cesar Godinez.  Godinez reportedly wrote to the Ministry a little over a week ago, outlining allegations that Pinelo solicited bribes from him. The complaint reportedly includes claims of electronic money transfers, screenshots and company incorporation documents that allegedly list Pinelo as a shareholder.  Minister Orlando Habet has confirmed that the complaint was received by his office and the ministry’s Chief Executive Officer. According to Habet, an internal investigation is now underway based on the allegations outlined in the letter. He has cautioned, however, that no conclusions have been reached and that the process must be allowed to run its course.  The allegations initially surfaced about a month ago, after which Pinelo proceeded on one month’s leave. At the time, Prime Minister John Briceño indicated that the ministry’s CEO had been tasked with looking into the matter.  With Pinelo’s leave coming to an end, questions are now being raised about his status upon returning to work. Minister Habet indicated that Pinelo has submitted a written response giving his side of the story, which remains under consideration as the internal investigation continues.  Pinelo is expected to return to work on Monday. According to the Minister, while a final determination has not been made, Pinelo would return in his substantive capacity as Deputy Forest Officer and not as Acting Chief Forest Officer while the investigation remains ongoing.  The Ministry has not indicated when the investigation is expected to conclude or what action, if any, could follow.