Those arrested are believed to be responsible for carrying out acts of intimidation, distributing extortion leaflets, and disrupting business operations in municipalities in northern Tolima and Caldas.
Through search and seizure operations conducted in the rural area of Mariquita, in the city of Ibagué, in the municipality of La Dorada (Caldas), and in the city of Medellín (Antioquia), soldiers from the Tolima Military Gaula, part of the National Army’s Sixth Brigade, in coordination with the National Police’s SIJIN and the Prosecutor’s Office’s CTI (Technical Investigation Corps),
apprehended four members of an organized armed group.According to the investigations, these individuals are believed to be responsible for issuing threats, distributing extortion leaflets, carrying out acts of intimidation, and summoning merchants, cattle ranchers, coffee growers, and members of other productive sectors in the municipalities of Mariquita and Guarinocito. They are also believed to be in charge of providing vehicles for the transportation of members of this illegal group.
During the operation, five handguns, one revolver, two non-lethal pistols, one shotgun, magazines, cartridges of various calibers, ten cell phones, and one laptop were seized.
Those arrested and the seized material were handed over to the competent authorities on charges of aggravated homicide, attempted homicide, and the manufacture, trafficking, carrying, or possession of firearms, accessories, parts, or ammunition.
This outcome represents a significant blow to the logistical and criminal capabilities of this illegal group,
preventing its strengthening and expansion within Tolima’s territory.The National Army reaffirms its commitment to the security and protection of the civilian population and invites citizens to report any incident that affects peace and coexistence through the hotlines established by the competent authorities.
Source:
Fifth Division Press.
