The National Army and authorities deal a major blow to the Gaitanist Army of Colombia GAO in the Bananera Zone

The operation was carried out through search, information gathering, and analysis efforts aimed at countering criminal activities that threaten the peace of communities in this area of the department.

During the operation, two individuals were arrested, one of whom had an outstanding arrest warrant. They will be held accountable by the competent authorities for the alleged crime of manufacturing, trafficking, carrying, or possessing firearms, accessories, parts, or ammunition.

As a result, authorities seized a pistol, a revolver, and several cartridges of various calibers.

Among those arrested is an individual known by the alias “El Turco,” who, according to investigations, is believed to be part of the department’s most-wanted cartel and allegedly serves as the leader of hitmen and second-in-command of this criminal organization, with influence in the municipalities of Zona Bananera and El Retén.

He is also subject to an active arrest warrant for the crimes of aggravated conspiracy to commit a crime with the intent to kill, extortion, and the trafficking, manufacture, and possession of narcotics.

The second individual arrested, known by the alias “Chipi,” is accused of being a member of this illegal organization and allegedly performing duties related to the transportation and stockpiling of war equipment used to commit criminal acts within the jurisdiction.

The detainees and the seized materials were handed over to the Ciénaga Prosecutor’s Office in Magdalena.

The National Army will continue to carry out coordinated and interagency operations aimed at undermining the capabilities of criminal structures and strengthening security and peace of mind for the civilian population in the Colombian Caribbean.

Source: First Division Press.