Customs filed a complaint for smuggling against Pilar Matte Capdevila, daughter of businessman Eliodoro Matte, after a package entered the country stating that it had merchandise for $526, when in reality its value exceeded $29 million.
The National Customs Service (SNA) filed a complaint against Pilar Matte Capdevila, daughter of businessman Eliodoro Matte Larraín, for the crime of smuggling, after she declared merchandise for $526, when in reality its value exceeded $29 million.
According to a report by Chilevision NewsCustoms filed a complaint against Pilar Matte and asks for 5 years in prison, in addition to a fine of $148 million.
The fact dates back to June 22, 2021, when a package from the United States, which according to the labeling contained pajamas, a set of glasses, shelves and three gold rings, for which Customs would pay $500 (about $450 thousand).
But the package raised doubts among the officials, who upon reviewing it realized that It contained merchandise valued at more than $29 million. The package contained 5 sets of glasses by designer Mario Lucca Goust, a bracelet and a gold ring by Suzanne Kalan, valued at US$26,000 and US$4,730, in addition to another product valued at more than US$8,000 by the same designer.
Due to this fact, Customs filed a complaint that was declared admissible by the First Guarantee Court of Santiago, and it is expected that in the next few days the Public Ministry will make a decision on whether to open an investigation against Matte.
Matte’s defense says it was a “mistake without bad faith”
The woman’s lawyer, Rodrigo González Holmes, referred to the situation and assured that what happened was due to a misunderstanding, and that even the game of drinks and other minor products was resolved through administrative channels.
The problem, according to the lawyer, is the jewelry in question, because Customs is obliged to file a complaint.
“This is a private purchase, on a non-commercial basis for some items, some like costume jewelry and others and a couple of jewelry items”, ithe professional indicated.
Likewise, the lawyer commented that they are evaluating the judicial situation, and they do not rule out seeking an alternative solution, assuring that what happened was an “error without bad faith.”
The Matte family is one of the most powerful in the country, where Eliodoro has played a relevant role, being president of CMPC from 2002 to 2016, leaving office after the tissue paper collusion, and was president of the CEP (Centro de Estudios Públicos).