Andrés Avelino Hurtado Grados, known as “Chibolín”, once claimed to be a divine messenger communicating with extraterrestrials.
The popular TV host and self-proclaimed future president of Peru has now fallen from grace. A court has ordered 18 months of detention for Hurtado on charges of influence peddling and bribery.
Hurtado’s rise to fame began with humble origins. He grew up in a poor neighborhood and worked as a house cleaner before becoming a comedian.
His career skyrocketed when he landed a role in the most watched comedy show in Peru. Eventually, Hurtado secured his own prime-time program, where he rubbed shoulders with celebrities.
The television personality cultivated an image of philanthropy and social mobility. He documented acts of charity on his Saturday night show, helping poor families and raising funds for sick children.
Hurtado’s flamboyant style included designer clothes, luxury cars and diamond rings. Behind this benevolent facade, the authorities claim a web of corruption and influence.
Prosecutors accuse Hurtado of brokering the return of 40 kilograms of seized gold to businessman Javier Miu Lei. The deal allegedly included a $1 million bribe to a top anti-money laundering prosecutor.
Corruption Scandal in Peru
Hurtado also faces charges of expediting citizenship processes for individuals well connected through immigration contacts. He is said to have received a BMW worth $33,000 from a football player’s family as payment for such services.
These accusations have implicated high-ranking officials in various government institutions. The scandal has exposed deep-rooted corruption networks in Peru.
It includes judges, prosecutors, intelligence officials, and even ties to notorious drug trafficker “Vaticano.” Hurtado’s connections reportedly extended to the highest levels of government, including the current president.
As the case unfolds, many public figures have distanced themselves from Hurtado. The fire department stripped him of his honorary title of firefighter and the armed forces withdrew a medal he had previously been awarded.
His fall from grace has been swift and sweeping. This scandal highlights the intersection of entertainment, politics and illegal economies in Peru.
It raises questions about the integrity of public institutions and the influence of media personalities. The case could lead to renewed calls for anti-corruption measures and institutional reforms.
