Corrupt nuns accused of hiding $9m in cash and jewels in Argentinian convent

Former minister Jose Lopez was seen throwing stacks of cash over an Argentinian convent wall.

A convent in Argentina is under investigation after an Irish priest was found to be involved in a corruption scandal.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - According to Catholic Culture, surveillance footage revealed four nuns have been assisting former minister José López by smuggling cash, jewels and weapons through the main entrance of the community of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

One of the convent's neighbors called authorities when he witnessed LĂłpez throwing bags over the convent wall. When officials moved in they discovered $9 million in cash and jewels hidden throughout the convent.

Daily Mail reported the investigation was launched "to determine if there was a cononical crime and help the actions of the civil justice," according to Reverand Tom O'Donnell, a leading investigator.

The cash discovered was in U.S. dollars and three other currencies. Expensive watches hidden in bags were also recovered.

The items were all stashed in strange places throughout the convent such as in the kitchen or the trunk of a car.

During a news conference, Security Minister Cristian Ritondo claimed LĂłpez tried to bribe police at the time of his arrest.

Ritondo stated: "He later told the nuns that police had tried to steal the money that he was trying to donate. There are dollars, yen, euros and a currency from Qatar ... It's a lot of money."

The Argentinian media aired closed-circuit footage of LĂłpez smuggling cash and carrying a rifle right through the convent's main entrance with the help of two nuns, one of whom will appear before Judge Daniel Rafecas August first.

The neighbor who prompted the investigation is expected to make an appearance in court as well.

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