Background on Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles
Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles is the current Secretary of the Mexican Navy (Semar). He took office in December 2018, succeeding Admiral Vidal Francisco Soberón Sánchez. As the head of Mexico’s naval forces, Morales Ángeles plays a crucial role in national security and defense.
Allegations of Fuel Smuggling Ring
In September 2020, allegations surfaced regarding a fuel smuggling ring involving two political nephews of former Semar Secretary José Rafael Ojeda Durán. The scandal came to light after the security cabinet exposed the illegal operation, which led to the detention of 14 individuals, including Vice Admiral Manuel Roberto Farías Laguna (Ojeda Durán’s political nephew) and the ongoing manhunt for Contralmirant Fernando Farías Laguna, another nephew suspected of involvement.
Morales Ángeles’ Response
During a pre-military parade speech on September 16, the anniversary of Mexico’s independence, Morales Ángeles addressed the corruption allegations head-on. He emphasized that the Navy has maintained its integrity and adherence to honesty and transparency, stating:
- Honesty and Transparency as Guiding Principles: Morales Ángeles asserted that the Navy has acted with “a single compass: honesty and transparency.” He assured that any challenges or accusations would be met with the full force of their honesty and a direct response to the Mexican people.
- Addressing the Fuel Smuggling Allegations: He acknowledged that it was difficult to expose the wrongdoings but stressed that remaining silent would have been “much more and absolutely unforgivable.”
- No Tolerance for Corruption: Morales Ángeles emphasized that the Navy would not tolerate corruption or impunity, as these issues are central to their transformation. He stated that dissimulation was never an option for them, and the truth strengthens them, justice defines them, and honesty sustains them.
Impact on Mexican Society
The Navy’s commitment to combating corruption and upholding integrity has significant implications for Mexican society. By addressing these allegations openly, Morales Ángeles aims to restore public trust in the institution and demonstrate that the Navy remains dedicated to upholding the law and promoting justice.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the allegations against the Mexican Navy? The allegations involve a fuel smuggling ring operated by two political nephews of former Semar Secretary José Rafael Ojeda Durán, leading to the detention of 14 individuals including Vice Admiral Manuel Roberto Farías Laguna.
- Who is Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles? Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles is the current Secretary of the Mexican Navy, appointed in December 2018. He is responsible for leading Mexico’s naval forces and ensuring national security and defense.
- How has Morales Ángeles responded to the allegations? Morales Ángeles addressed the corruption allegations during a pre-military parade speech, emphasizing the Navy’s commitment to honesty, transparency, and zero tolerance for corruption. He stressed that exposing wrongdoings was the right thing to do, even if difficult.
