Mexico Seeks Civil Party Status in Andorra Money Laundering Probe

Mexico has requested to join as a civil party in ongoing Andorra investigations into its nationals accused of laundering millions of euros through BPA bank, funds linked to drug trafficking and corruption originating in the country.

The Mexican government aims to recover the still-frozen assets, arguing it is entitled to seek compensation for damages caused by the suspects—Mexican nationals and residents—who laundered proceeds from underlying crimes committed in Mexico. These include illicit association, illegal banking activities, corruption, influence peddling, and drug trafficking.

In its filings, Mexico outlined specific losses: tax revenues lost due to undeclared and untaxed funds deposited in Andorran accounts; capital flight that depleted state wealth and devalued its currency; public spending on health and security to combat drug trafficking; and harm from corruption, which damages public administration's prestige, officials' impartiality, public service efficiency, and Mexico's international reputation. It also noted the significant costs to repair administrative systems undermined by graft.

Andorran courts have repeatedly rejected Mexico's bids, ruling that the request seeks recovery of blocked funds, which falls outside the role of a civil party. Such recoveries, if they occur, must follow Andorra's established mechanisms for asset forfeiture.

Mexico appealed, claiming the denials violate its fundamental right of access to justice by misrepresenting its claim for damages as a disguised attempt to share in any confiscation. That appeal was also dismissed.