Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated on Tuesday that he narrowly avoided an assassination attempt while traveling by helicopter. This claim follows months of warnings regarding a purported plot by drug traffickers to harm him.
Details of the Incident
The leftist leader explained that he was unable to land in the department of Córdoba, in the Caribbean region of Colombia, on Monday night due to fears that his aircraft would be fired upon. Petro recounted taking to the open sea for four hours, stating, “We took to the open sea for four hours and arrived where we shouldn’t have, escaping being killed.” He made these remarks during a live-streamed meeting with his ministers.
Context of Rising Violence
This accusation comes amid increased violence surrounding the upcoming presidential elections, scheduled to take place in three months. Petro is legally barred from seeking reelection. He alleges that a “new board of drug traffickers” has been seeking his assassination since he took office in August 2022.
According to Petro, the alleged conspiracy involves drug traffickers residing abroad and guerrillas, including Iván Mordisco, described as the country’s most wanted criminal and leader of the largest dissident group from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which previously signed a peace agreement in 2016.
Clan del Golfo and US Involvement
The Clan del Golfo, Colombia’s largest cartel, operates in Córdoba. The group recently suspended peace talks after Petro agreed with U.S. President Donald Trump to launch a manhunt for its leader, known as Chiquito Malo.
Petro previously reported a separate assassination attempt in 2024, which prevented him from attending a military parade on July 20th of that year. During his campaign, he received heavy security, with bodyguards even carrying armored shields for protection. He had previously stated that a drug trafficker from the coffee-growing region of the country sought to assassinate him.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did President Petro allege happened on Monday night?
President Petro stated he escaped a potential assassination attempt while flying in a helicopter, fearing the aircraft would be shot at while attempting to land in Córdoba.
Who does President Petro accuse of plotting against him?
Petro alleges a “new board of drug traffickers,” including individuals abroad and guerrillas like Iván Mordisco, are conspiring to assassinate him.
What role does the Clan del Golfo play in this situation?
The Clan del Golfo, the largest cartel in Colombia, operates in Córdoba and recently suspended peace talks after Petro agreed with the U.S. President to pursue its leader.
Given the history of political violence in Colombia, what steps might be taken to ensure the safety of political figures during the upcoming election?
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