24/06/2026 21:15 - Judiciales
Federal investigators are analyzing videos filmed by Jésica Cirio, a well-known Argentine model and television personality, inside her luxury apartment in Palermo, one of Buenos Aires' most exclusive neighborhoods. These recordings, found on her mobile phone, allegedly show stacks of US dollars stored in her dressing room.
According to Infobae, investigators are working to determine the exact amount captured in these videos. The findings could significantly expand the case against Martín Insaurralde, a powerful politician who served as mayor of Lomas de Zamora (a populous district in Greater Buenos Aires) and held national positions.
The scandal erupted in September 2023 when Sofía Clerici, another media personality, released videos showing Insaurralde aboard a luxury yacht. This triggered multiple investigations, including cross-accusations of extortion between the parties involved.
Cirio filed a formal extortion complaint (case number CCC 36588/2025) which led to the June 22, 2026 raids. What began as an investigation into threats evolved into a case examining potential money laundering and illicit enrichment.
Investigators analyzed Insaurralde's declared assets between 2011 and 2021, totaling $8,620,967 Argentine pesos. However, his expense records paint a dramatically different picture:
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| International trips | 75 trips |
| Expenses in US dollars | USD 71,280.40 |
| Marbella (Spain) expenses | €41,087.65 + USD 8,189.30 |
This stark disparity between declared income and documented expenditures forms a central pillar of the investigation.
One witness confirmed that US dollars were transported from the office of Elías Piccirillo to the home of Martín Migues. Piccirillo is already detained in a separate case involving the planting of drugs on Francisco Hauque, a widely reported incident in Argentine media.
The connection between these cases allows prosecutors to build a more comprehensive picture of the financial operations under investigation.
Legislator Graciela Ocaña, a prominent opposition figure, publicly criticized the delay in processing those involved. Notably, Insaurralde has not yet been summoned for questioning, raising questions about the pace of the investigation.
Money laundering ("lavado de activos" in Spanish) is the process of making illegally obtained money appear legitimate. Prosecutors are investigating whether the funds found could originate from prior illegal activities.
Extortion involves using threats or pressure to obtain money or other benefits illegitimately. The case examines whether such tactics were employed.
Federal Judge Luis Armella continues analyzing seized evidence. The dressing room videos will undergo technical analysis to determine the precise amounts shown. The case remains partially under seal, with new developments expected in coming weeks.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
