Mexican Mayor Accused of Staging Own Kidnapping in Alleged $2.3 Million Fraud Scheme
Authorities in Mexico have accused Nancy Napoles, the municipal president of Tenancingo, of allegedly staging her own kidnapping in what prosecutors describe as a plot to divert approximately 40 million pesos (about $2.3 million) in public funds under the pretext of paying ransom.
According to investigators, Napoles was initially reported to have been abducted by armed men who allegedly forced her into a vehicle and later demanded a huge ransom while threatening harm to her and her family.
Prosecutors claim the alleged kidnappers suggested that if private funds could not cover the payment, local government resources should be used.
However, the reported abduction allegedly came under scrutiny after a witness alerted security authorities, triggering a search operation that investigators believe disrupted the planned execution of the scheme.
Authorities said information provided by three suspects arrested in connection with the case led investigators to further examine the incident.
Following the investigation, prosecutors said inconsistencies emerged in Napoles’ account of events and alleged that her husband and brother-in-law may have coordinated the operation as part of an attempt to justify the disappearance of public funds.
Napoles, who belongs to the ruling Morena political party led nationally by President Claudia Sheinbaum, has denied all allegations.
In a statement shared on social media, she described the accusations as politically motivated and expressed readiness to cooperate fully with authorities to ensure those responsible are identified.
Prosecutors have summoned the mayor to appear for questioning on July 9 as investigations continue.
Although no arrest warrant has been issued against her, authorities reportedly declared her husband and brother-in-law wanted in connection with the case.
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