Investigation Launched into Celso Borges Over Allegations of Tax Evasion
The footballer faces scrutiny as his estranged wife claims disparities in reported salary amid divorce proceedings.
Celso Borges, captain of Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, is currently under investigation by the Ministry of Finance in Costa Rica following allegations of tax evasion stemming from a domestic violence complaint filed by his estranged wife, Marta Peralta.
In her complaint, Peralta asserts that Borges earns a higher salary than reported and alleges that this disparity constitutes a violation of tax laws and social security contributions.
The couple is undergoing a divorce, during which Peralta has requested a monthly alimony of ¢3 million, claiming it reflects the lifestyle she maintained during their marriage.
A judge has ordered Borges to temporarily pay ¢1.8 million monthly for one year.
In light of these allegations, the Director General of Taxation, Mario Ramos, confirmed that a preliminary investigation will be conducted to assess the validity of the claims made by Peralta.
Ramos stated, "This Directorate has been informed through news reports of the complaint filed by Mrs. Peralta Saiz, which reportedly indicates a possible fiscal irregularity arising from an inaccurate declaration.
We will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine if there is sufficient merit to open any tax control proceedings against Mr. Borges Mora or Liga Deportiva Alajuelense."
The Director added that both football clubs and individual players are subject to inspections by the tax authorities, as they are treated like any other taxpayers.
The tax administration employs two primary sources for control procedures: complaints, which can be made anonymously, and a risk matrix, known as DIQUIS, which is based on taxpayer behavior and selection criteria for audits.
On the matter of the timeline for the preliminary investigation, Ramos noted that it is indefinite and involves various facets, including analyses of public records and tax information, information requests from third parties, and interviews.
Borges' attorney, Róger Guevara, has firmly denied the allegations, categorizing them as unfounded and asserting that all earnings have been reported accurately.
He stated, "We categorically and vehemently reject the accusations of wrongdoing, either by Celso himself or by his employer." Guevara further indicated that Borges is prepared to provide all necessary information to demonstrate compliance with tax and social security regulations.
He emphasized the significance of Borges' extensive career abroad as relevant to the tax considerations in this case.
Additionally, Marco Vásquez, spokesperson for Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, has described the allegations as false, asserting that all salaries within the club are reported in full.
He noted that the club is regularly supervised by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, confirming that players' earnings are consistently declared.
As this situation evolves, Borges remains a prominent figure in public discourse, impacted not only by the personal ramifications of his divorce but also by the serious nature of the tax allegations against him.
In her complaint, Peralta asserts that Borges earns a higher salary than reported and alleges that this disparity constitutes a violation of tax laws and social security contributions.
The couple is undergoing a divorce, during which Peralta has requested a monthly alimony of ¢3 million, claiming it reflects the lifestyle she maintained during their marriage.
A judge has ordered Borges to temporarily pay ¢1.8 million monthly for one year.
In light of these allegations, the Director General of Taxation, Mario Ramos, confirmed that a preliminary investigation will be conducted to assess the validity of the claims made by Peralta.
Ramos stated, "This Directorate has been informed through news reports of the complaint filed by Mrs. Peralta Saiz, which reportedly indicates a possible fiscal irregularity arising from an inaccurate declaration.
We will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine if there is sufficient merit to open any tax control proceedings against Mr. Borges Mora or Liga Deportiva Alajuelense."
The Director added that both football clubs and individual players are subject to inspections by the tax authorities, as they are treated like any other taxpayers.
The tax administration employs two primary sources for control procedures: complaints, which can be made anonymously, and a risk matrix, known as DIQUIS, which is based on taxpayer behavior and selection criteria for audits.
On the matter of the timeline for the preliminary investigation, Ramos noted that it is indefinite and involves various facets, including analyses of public records and tax information, information requests from third parties, and interviews.
Borges' attorney, Róger Guevara, has firmly denied the allegations, categorizing them as unfounded and asserting that all earnings have been reported accurately.
He stated, "We categorically and vehemently reject the accusations of wrongdoing, either by Celso himself or by his employer." Guevara further indicated that Borges is prepared to provide all necessary information to demonstrate compliance with tax and social security regulations.
He emphasized the significance of Borges' extensive career abroad as relevant to the tax considerations in this case.
Additionally, Marco Vásquez, spokesperson for Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, has described the allegations as false, asserting that all salaries within the club are reported in full.
He noted that the club is regularly supervised by the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social, confirming that players' earnings are consistently declared.
As this situation evolves, Borges remains a prominent figure in public discourse, impacted not only by the personal ramifications of his divorce but also by the serious nature of the tax allegations against him.
