Mexico
Governor of Tamaulipas Refutes LA Times Allegations; May Take Legal Action
Américo Villarreal displayed his physical U.S. visa to reporters, calling the LA Times report on a few smuggling investigations entirely baseless.
The governor of Tamaulipas, Américo Villarreal, at a press conference refuted allegations revealed by the Los Angeles Times that he is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice for fuel smuggling and that his U.S. visa was canceled.
“I categorically, absolutely and emphatically deny it. I never participated in, promoted, protected or maintained any relationship with activities of that nature or with any other conducted outside the law,” Villarreal emphasized.
He reiterated that the allegations against him lack evidence and maintained that they were built on uncorroborated, anonymous sources and speculations that seek to acquire the character of truth simply by having been published in a media outlet.
The governor proceeded to defend his long professional career spanning decades as a specialist cardiologist, dedicated to medical care and the care of his patients, and serving the people. He emphasized that everything he has achieved is owed to his professional life and “not to illicit activities, not to obscure interests, nor to criminal organizations,” and he strongly rejected any attempt to link his name to criminal activities that have never been “part of his life.”
During the press conference, he showed his visa and stated that he hasn’t received any notification, cancellation or restrictions by U.S. authorities.
In response to a reporter’s question, Governor Villarreal did not rule out the possibility of taking legal action against the Los Angeles Times or requesting the right of reply, concluding that his legal team is currently analyzing the matter.
Photo: Screenshot
Voice of Mexico
