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Raids on Argentine Model's Properties Uncover Cash, Weapons

23/06/2026 15:32 - Judiciales

High-Profile Raids Shake Buenos Aires

On June 22, 2026, Federal Judge Luis Armella ordered simultaneous raids on properties connected to Jésica Cirio, a well-known Argentine model and television personality. The operations took place in Palermo (an upscale Buenos Aires neighborhood) and Banfield (a southern suburb), as part of an ongoing investigation into extortion and money laundering involving Martín Insaurralde, the former mayor of Lomas de Zamora district.

This case has captured national attention due to its connections to political scandals involving prominent public figures.

Palermo Findings

  • $19,000 USD in cash discovered
  • Registered firearms belonging to Nicolás Trombino (43), Cirio's current partner and wholesale supermarket businessman
  • 2 grams of substance currently undergoing laboratory analysis

Banfield Findings

  • Mobile phone belonging to Elías Piccirillo, previously detained for allegedly planting drugs on Francisco Hauque

No other significant items were recovered at this location.

Background: The Scandal Explained

For international readers: Martín Insaurralde served as mayor of Lomas de Zamora (one of Argentina's most populous districts in Greater Buenos Aires) and was considered a rising political figure. The scandal erupted in September 2023 when videos surfaced showing Sofía Clerici aboard a luxury yacht, sparking media frenzy.

Investigators revealed Insaurralde took more than 75 international trips with documented expenses totaling USD 71,280.40, including a Marbella, Spain trip costing €41,087.65 plus USD 8,189.30.

His declared assets between 2011 and 2021 amount to $8,620,967 Argentine pesos (approximately USD 45,000 at current rates).

Extortion Allegations

Jésica Cirio filed an extortion complaint under case CCC 36588/2025, claiming she was victimized amid the ongoing legal conflict. Cirio confirmed her relationship with Trombino in November 2025 and is currently pregnant.

Court records indicate Cirio holds a debt of $3,553,000 Argentine pesos with Banco Galicia, one of Argentina's largest private banks.

Calls for Judicial Action

Graciela Ocaña, a prominent opposition politician, publicly criticized delays in the proceedings against Insaurralde, demanding judicial authorities advance the case. As of now, Insaurralde has not been summoned for formal questioning.

The former mayor remains without formal charges despite multiple irregularities detected in his administration and asset declarations.

Sources: Information compiled from federal court records and judicial proceedings. IMAGO News Argentina
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