PANAMA CITY (AP) — Eight years after 11 million leaked secret financial documents revealed how some of the world’s richest people hide their wealth, more than two dozen defendants are on trial in Panama for their alleged roles.
The repercussions of the leaks were far-ranging, prompting the resignation of the prime minister of Iceland and bringing scrutiny to the then-leaders of Argentina and Ukraine, Chinese politicians and Russian President Vladimir Putin, among others.
But those on trial now for alleged money laundering are principally the leaders and associates of the now defunct Panamanian boutique law firm that helped set up the shell companies used to obscure those really behind them.
The leaders of that firm, Jürgen Mossack and Ramón Fonseca, are among those on trial.
Panamanian prosecutors allege that Mossack, Fonseca and their associates created a web of offshore companies that used complex transactions to hide money linked to illicit activities in the “car wash” corruption scandal of Brazilian construction giant Odebrecht.
Argentina asks to join NATO as President Milei seeks a more prominent role for his nation
Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa of Jordan announce they are expecting a baby this summer
Let's hear it for Princess Anne, the brave, plain
Carlos Carrasco pitches solid into the 6th inning, Guardians edge Red Sox 5
JAN MOIR: Why JK Rowling SHOULDN'T forgive the weaselly band
Hong Kong gov't contacts police over satirical fake press release congratulating porn star
Can you nail which royal women committed these acts of manicure mutiny?
Longest ever case of Covid lasted 613 DAYS and turned into ultra
From the fabulous 'Elvis Dress' to the velvet gown she wore dancing with Travolta
Alabama court authorizes executing a man convicted of killing a delivery driver
Meet the new 'dynamic duo'! Anne and Sophie pair up to share the royal burden