Petro-Perú has removed multiple high-level officials in recent months, including two replacements now facing criminal investigations for alleged corruption. The state-owned oil company’s restructuring has exposed legal and ethical risks as its leadership reshapes roles amid ongoing probes.
Who Are the Officials Under Investigation?
Two key appointees in Petro-Perú’s leadership now face formal legal scrutiny:
- Iván Montoya, gerente legal y asuntos regulatorios, is investigated for estafa, document falsification, unauthorized professional practice, and false declarations. His case (N° 506154501-2024-2345-0) advanced to “investigación preparatoria” in May 2026, meaning prosecutors have formalized charges ahead of potential accusations.
- Juan Manuel Banda, jefe de asuntos procesales, faces allegations of concusión (extortion) and incompatible negotiations. His case (N° 506015505-2024-2310) remains in preliminary review, with prosecutors gathering initial evidence.
Both officials were appointed under Petro-Perú’s restructuring efforts, which sources say targeted personnel allegedly tied to asset misappropriation.
Why Does This Matter for Petro-Perú’s Future?
The investigations underscore systemic risks in the company’s turnover. Montoya’s reinstatement after a 2025 decree—followed by his removal and rapid reappointment—highlights instability in leadership during a critical restructuring phase. Meanwhile, Banda’s dual allegations (concussion and peculado) suggest broader vulnerabilities in financial oversight.
What Happens Next?
Possible developments include:
- Prosecutors may formalize accusations against Montoya by late 2026, given his case’s advanced stage.
- Banda’s preliminary investigation could lead to additional charges if evidence of concussion or peculado is confirmed.
- Petro-Perú’s board may further centralize legal oversight, as recent reports indicate the Gerencia Legal will absorb the Unidad de Seguros—a shift that could tighten compliance but also heighten scrutiny.
President Edmundo Lizarzaburu has emphasized transparency, but without public responses to allegations, the company’s credibility hinges on prosecutorial outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long has Iván Montoya worked at Petro-Perú?
Montoya joined the company in 2013 and has held the gerencia legal role twice: first in December 2021 and again in December 2025.
2. What legal stage is Banda’s case in?
Banda’s investigation remains in the “preliminary” phase, where prosecutors are gathering initial evidence before deciding whether to advance charges.
3. Did Petro-Perú respond to these allegations?
No. Requests for comment from the company were not answered.
As Petro-Perú reshapes its leadership, how might these investigations influence public trust in state-owned enterprises?
