Prosecutors have formally charged Lourdes Bernarda Ramírez de Ramos over her alleged involvement in the kidnappings of Arlan Fick and police officer Edelio Morínigo, crimes attributed to the self-styled Paraguayan People’s Army (EPP). The charges cover events that took place between 2009 and 2015.
Prosecutor Federico Delfino charged Ramírez with the alleged crimes of kidnapping, terrorism, terrorist association and violation of the Weapons Law. The indictment claims the woman was part of the armed group’s structure and took part in operations in the north of the country.
Prosecutors maintain there is evidence directly linking Ramírez to the kidnapping of Arlan Fick, which occurred in April 2014 in Azotey, Concepción Department. The young man was freed after months in captivity, amid negotiations and conditions set by the group.
The defendant is also accused of alleged involvement in the kidnapping of police officer Edelio Morínigo, recorded in July of the same year in Arroyito. The officer remains missing, and his case stands as one of the most emblematic episodes tied to the EPP.
Investigators say Ramírez was identified in audiovisual materials and other items found months after both kidnappings. In those records, she appears alongside members of the criminal organization.
The charges form part of investigations into acts of terrorism and kidnapping concentrated mainly in the departments of Concepción and San Pedro, areas historically affected by EPP actions.