Son of Maradona Arrested in Drug Trafficking Operation

Santiago Lara, a man who previously claimed to be the son of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona, has been arrested in La Plata, Argentina, on charges related to drug trafficking. The arrest, which occurred in recent days, also involved his father, Marcelo Fabián Lara, and a woman identified as María José Boren, a member of the Buenos Aires Penitentiary Service.

Details of the Arrest

The operation, led by prosecutor Hugo Tesón of the Unidad Funcional de Instrucción N° 18, began in 2024 following an anonymous tip about drug sales in the central area of La Plata. Authorities conducted undercover surveillance and “buyer-pretext” operations, observing activities consistent with drug trafficking according to Infobae.

Police raided a property on 56th Street between 20th and 21st Streets, where the group allegedly packaged drugs for distribution throughout La Plata and City Bell. The raid yielded cocaine, cannabis resin, ecstasy, crystal meth, weighing scales, seven mobile phones, and cash Infobae reports.

Maradona Paternity Claim

Santiago Lara first gained public attention in 2016, at the age of 15, when he claimed to be Maradona’s sixth child. He stated that his mother, a former model who died in 2006, had a seven-year relationship with the football star as detailed by Infobae.

After Maradona’s death in November 2020, Santiago requested the exhumation of the footballer’s body to conduct a paternity test. Though, DNA tests later confirmed he was not Maradona’s son Infobae.

Investigation and Charges

Marcelo Fabián Lara is believed to be the leader of the drug trafficking organization, with Santiago Lara assisting in the operation. María José Boren is accused of being a seller and supplier of drugs within the prison system according to 0221.com.ar. Three simultaneous raids were conducted in La Plata and City Bell.

Authorities are also investigating potential drug trafficking within the prison system.

Maradona Death Trial

This arrest comes as a fresh trial regarding Maradona’s death is scheduled to start on March 17th. The previous trial was postponed after a judge recused themself due to involvement in a documentary about the case. Eight individuals, including Maradona’s former physician Leopoldo Luque, face homicide charges related to Maradona’s death from heart failure in November 2020.