by Ana Vinas, Staff Writer
The Mexican government has asked the U.S State Department to substantiate allegations by Robert Gelbard, subdirector of Narcotic Affairs, that Sonora's Governor, Manlio Fabio Beltrones is involved in drug trafficking. Gelbard apparently testified before Congress that Beltrones "worries" the United States. A New York Times article on Mexico's recertification also mentioned that police and U.S. intelligence have evidence that Beltrones and the Governor of Morelos, Jorge Carrillo Olea, have been protecting drug cartel leader, Amado Carrillo Fuentes. That news was then re-printed in the media in Mexico.
Beltrones has filed a lawsuit against the paper, Gelbard and any Mexican informants or media who might be responsible for the public allegations.
According to Beltrones' lawyer, the allegations have negatively affected the Governor and his family's honor, credit and personal dignity as well as damaged his public image. Beltrones has asked for a full investigation by the federal police. The lawsuit contends that the libelous statements violate Article 2 in the Federal Code and Sonora state laws.
Sources: Reforma, Diario de Juarez