MIAMI – Colombian businessman Álvaro Pulido Vargas, a longtime associate of Alex Saab, is in United States custody and is scheduled to make his first appearance before a federal court in Miami on Tuesday, October 13.
A federal spokesperson confirmed that Pulido is in U.S. custody following an investigation involving the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Authorities have not disclosed the circumstances under which Pulido was transferred to the United States.
Colombian newspaper El Tiempo reported that U.S. agents removed Pulido from a prison in Caracas and transported him to Florida. The precise circumstances surrounding his departure from Venezuelan custody have not been officially detailed by U.S. authorities.
Pulido had reportedly been detained in Venezuela since 2023 in connection with a major corruption investigation involving state oil company Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA).
In the United States, Pulido faces two proceedings involving allegations of money laundering and irregularities connected to contracts for Venezuela's government-subsidized food program, known as the Local Committees for Supply and Production (CLAP).
Pulido has long been associated with Saab, the Colombian businessman who became closely connected to the Venezuelan government and was accused by U.S. authorities of participating in schemes involving government contracts and the movement of funds through the international financial system.
Pulido's arrival in U.S. custody potentially opens a new chapter in federal investigations into financial operations involving individuals with close connections to the Venezuelan government.
However, the circumstances of his transfer from Venezuela could become an important part of the developing story, particularly given that he had been held by Venezuelan authorities.
His scheduled appearance Tuesday in Miami federal court is expected to provide additional information about the criminal proceedings against him and his legal status in the United States.
The allegations against Pulido remain accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.