Merits trial for irregularities in the traffic light system of Greater Santo Domingo
The former director of the National Institute of Transit and Land Transportation (Intrant), Hugo Beras, along with businessman José Ángel Gómez Canaán, popularly known as “Jochy Gómez,” appeared in court this Tuesday to begin the trial against them. Both are listed as the main defendants in the judicial process investigating alleged irregularities in the contract intended for the modernization of the traffic light network in the Dominican capital.
After successfully overcoming the preliminary stage, the file has advanced to this crucial phase where the criminal liability of the accused will be determined. Expectations are high, given the impact this case has had on public opinion since the first allegations came to light.
Contract details under scrutiny
The legal conflict originated in 2023, the year in which Intrant awarded the company Transcore Latam a multi-million dollar contract amounting to RD$1.317 billion. The objective of the project was the comprehensive management and modernization of the traffic control system in Greater Santo Domingo.
However, the General Directorate of Public Procurement intervened after detecting alleged irregularities in the bidding process, which resulted in the immediate suspension of the agreement. Subsequently, the Public Prosecutor’s Office filed a formal accusation, pointing to the existence of a scheme designed to manipulate the award in favor of private interests.
The court must thoroughly evaluate the evidence presented by the prosecution against the arguments of the defense, who have categorically rejected the charges brought since the beginning of the investigations.
What comes next in the judicial process?
- The start of the trial on the merits marks the beginning of the formal presentation of evidence before the judges.
- The arguments of both parties will be analyzed to establish whether there was a violation of the current regulations in public procurement.
- The case continues to be monitored due to the relevance of the amount involved and the consequences it had for traffic management in the city.
Alofoke Deportes will continue to follow every detail of this judicial process as the trial progresses and new evidence is presented in the courtroom.
