On January 17, 2025, a judge in Bolivia issued an arrest warrant for former President Evo Morales after he failed to appear for a hearing regarding a request for preventive detention in a human trafficking case involving a minor.
Judge Nelson Rocabado announced the decision during a hearing broadcast on state television, stating, "An arrest warrant is issued against the accused." This marks the second time Morales has missed a court appearance related to the case.
The Bolivian prosecution formally charged Morales with aggravated human trafficking, alleging that he maintained a relationship with a 15-year-old girl during his presidency, resulting in the birth of a child in 2016. The girl's parents reportedly consented to the relationship in exchange for benefits.
During the hearing, the judge declared Morales a "fugitive," indicating that the trial would be suspended until he appears in court. Prosecutor Sandra Gutiérrez confirmed that an earlier investigation into similar allegations was dismissed in 2020, but the current case focuses on trafficking, which carries a potential prison sentence of 10 to 15 years.
Morales, now 65, denies the allegations, asserting that previous investigations into the same matter were closed without charges.