Colombian President Gustavo Petro claimed drug traffickers intend to assassinate him with missiles, highlighting the surge in cocaine production during his tenure. This assertion arose during General Carlos Fernando Triana’s appointment as National Police director. The administration faces intensified violence from guerrilla groups and skepticism about Petro’s claims of assassination plots against him. General Triana aims to strengthen police efforts amid the country’s increasing crime rates and security challenges.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro alleged that drug traffickers plotted to assassinate him using missiles against the presidential aircraft. He made this assertion during the inauguration of General Carlos Fernando Triana as the new director of the National Police. Although he claims threats arise from intensified anti-narcotics measures, specific evidence and implicated groups remain unidentified.
Petro’s administration has seen cocaine production surge despite claims of combating drug trafficking. Armed groups such as the ELN and dissident factions of FARC are reportedly gaining strength, sparking humanitarian crises, particularly in the northeast region of Catatumbo. Petro’s strategy includes negotiating with these factions, yet violence has escalated, exemplified by a recent armed curfew in Chocó imposed by the ELN.
Colombia is the leading global cocaine producer, with production leading to a prolonged internal conflict resulting in over 450,000 deaths and millions displaced. In 2024, Colombian forces seized a record 883.8 metric tons of cocaine, up from 746.3 tons the previous year, according to UN reports that showcased coca cultivation covering 253,000 hectares.
This is not the first threat to Petro; he has previously mentioned several assassination plots since his election in 2022, including one involving explosives. Skepticism surrounds these claims from opposition figures, suggesting the allegations may lack substantial evidence and could redirect attention from past attacks on government officials.
Amid these challenges, internal disputes and controversies within Petro’s administration are becoming apparent, adversely affecting its stability and foreign investment prospects. The appointment of General Triana as National Police director signifies efforts to address ongoing security predicaments, especially the increase in homicides in urban areas like Bogotá.
General Triana, with over 30 years in the National Police, has held various leadership roles and is recognized for his public service. His appointment was intended to coincide with strategic changes within the government, especially amidst the departure of General Salamanca, who had returned from retirement to serve in this capacity. Triana’s leadership will focus on enhancing the National Police’s capabilities and tackling criminal actions including extortion and security lapses within correctional facilities.
At Triana’s induction, President Petro underscored the importance of effective policing and leadership in overcoming Colombia’s challenges with crime, affirming the need for a robust strategy to ensure public safety as the nation grapples with complex security issues.
President Petro’s claims of threats against his life from narcotraffickers occur amid growing cocaine production and escalating violence from armed groups. The appointment of General Triana aims to address these security issues, while suspicion of political motivations regarding Petro’s claims persists. As Colombia’s drug crisis deepens, addressing the roots of violence through effective policing will be crucial for restoring stability.
Original Source: www.financecolombia.com
