Prominent Guatemalan Anti-Corruption Lawyer Shot Dead in Guatemala City

Juan Francisco Solórzano Foppa, a prominent Guatemalan lawyer and former prosecutor known for his fight against corruption, has been shot dead in an armed attack in Guatemala City.

The 43-year-old was reportedly attacked by two men while visiting a sports centre on Saturday, according to Reuters.

Foppa previously served as head of Guatemala's Superintendency of Tax Administration (SAT) from 2016 to 2018, where he helped prosecute influential business figures and recover unpaid taxes.

He was also known for publicly exposing alleged wrongdoing involving powerful politicians, business leaders and companies in the Central American country.

Following the attack, police announced the arrest of two men and the seizure of a carbine-style firearm and a motorcycle in connection with the investigation.

Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo condemned the killing, describing it as a cowardly act and calling for everyone involved, including those who ordered the attack, to face justice.

In a statement posted on his official X account, Arévalo said he had instructed his government to coordinate with the relevant authorities to ensure the crime was thoroughly investigated.

The president also warned that attempts to intimidate the Guatemalan people and his administration through violence would not succeed.

Foppa had been involved in several high-profile legal cases. In 2023, he briefly joined the defence team of journalist José Rubén Zamora, whose prosecution has drawn international attention over concerns about press freedom and judicial independence in Guatemala.

However, Foppa later withdrew from the case after prosecutors accused him of obstructing proceedings and destroying or concealing information. He denied the allegations but eventually accepted a plea agreement, explaining that he did not believe he would receive a fair trial.

In 2025, he also alleged links between the Barrio 18 criminal gang, the National Unity of Hope political party and elements within Guatemala's judicial system.

His killing has drawn condemnation from the country's leadership, with authorities expected to continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack and the possible involvement of others.

Police have yet to publicly establish a motive for the killing.

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