English Statement

To whom it may concern:

My name is Juan Alberto Chirino Ariza, I am the Deputy to the Manager at Air France Caracas Airport unjustly detained since September 24, 2013 for the investigations on the discovery of 1.3 tons of cocaine at Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport. In order to justify my arrest the prosecutors accused me of omission alleging a work position and functions that are not into my duties. They claim that I was the Operations Manager at baggage zone and that I was supposed to supervise the security staff, counting of baggage passengers and cargo. 

I have to inform that I am not the Operation Manager on the baggage zone (it is stated in my work contract that I am deputy to the manager not Operation Manager at baggage zone as prosecutors claim) the functions that they are charging me for are out of my duties and they are strictly prohibited by the contracts signed between Air France and handling companies. I have to point out that the reception, classification and selection of baggage are duties of the security company which has the exclusive control over its staff.

Unfortunately so far justice has been very slow, however the case is currently being reviewed by a committee of the Venezuelan National Assembly and I am also asking the Attorney General to analyze the case so she can realize in first person that I am innocent.

On the file there is sufficient evidence such as videos, manuals, expertise, Air France and airport documents among others proving that I have no responsibilities whatsoever on the events, it proves I am innocent and I am telling the truth.

I beg for justice,

Juan Alberto Chirino Ariza.

Return to main paige