Uncertainty on DMG case

11-22-2008 | MANUEL LUNA, RAFAEL RODRIGUEZ

periodistas@laestrella.com.pa

Panamanian clients of DMG are worried about their monetary investments

Panama Star PANAMA. David Murcia Guzman, the mastermind behind the company DMG, was captured last Wednesday by Panamanian forces and deported to Colombia.

His business, which received money in lieu of prepaid cards to purchase goods and services and the payment of high interest rates, was accused by the Colombian prosecutor’s office of growing thanks to money laundering.

DMG offices in Panama have been closed down by judicial order. Investigations are just starting, but the uncertainty of thousands of Panamanians unsure of how to claim their investment is on the rise.

Police forces believe around 20 thousand Panamanians sought after the benefits that DMG offered, all of whom are now hoping they will be able to recover the money they have invested in this “pyramids” scheme. Panama’s attorney general, Ana Matilde Gomez, met with the Minister of Commerce and Industries and the bank superintendent in charge Mauri Castill on Thursday to figure out a way to protect the victims of Murcia’s dealings.

Gomez stated that the prosecutor’s office is investigating this case.

Vergara said that the Financial Coordination Council is evaluating the situation.

Castillo affirmed that the security of the banking system will not be affected by this case. He also asked victims to submit their complaints in their offices or by calling 506-7800.

Meanwhile in Colombia, the El Espectador daily reported that the Colombian Minister of Defense, Juan Manuel Santos, revealed that thanks to the 13-months investigation, it was discovered that Murcia had more than 300 companies on paper in Panama. Murcia apparently bought companies already or soon to be bankrupt to use for his illicit activities.