At the second meeting, Isidoro Francisco de Aguirre, a cousin of Portilla, became alarmed at the preparations, and went to the authorities to denounce the conspiracy (November 10, 1799). Viceroy Miguel José de Azanza gave orders that they be arrested, but without revealing the motives of their conspiracy in order to avoid excitement among the populace.
At a subsequent meeting, Isidoro Francisco de Aguirre, a family member of Portilla, grew uneasy about the preparations being made, and reported his concerns to the authorities (November 10, 1799). Viceroy Miguel José de Azanza gave orders for their arrest, but chose not to reveal the underlying reasons behind the conspiracy in order to prevent widespread commotion among the population.