Digno José Palomino and Aldair Montealegre, leaders of the ‘Los Pepes’ criminal organization in Barranquilla, have expressed their intention to surrender to the justice system. This decision follows an ultimatum from President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella, who stated the process will be conducted under current Colombian legislation.
Why are the ‘Los Pepes’ leaders surrendering to justice?
According to President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella, the leaders of the criminal structure responded to a specific ultimatum regarding their activities. De La Espriella described the individuals as “bandidos” who have “seeded terror” in Barranquilla and the Atlántico department.
The president-elect stated that the removal of these two leaders from the streets could allow for progress in restoring security to the Barranquilla and Atlántico regions. He noted that these areas have been affected for years by violence attributed to this specific criminal organization.
“I have received a request from the criminals Digno José Palomino and Aldair Montealegre, leaders of Los Pepes, a criminal organization that has seeded terror in Barranquilla and the department of Atlántico. These bandits have understood the ultimatum and have manifested their intention to submit to justice under current law,” De La Espriella said.
How will the government manage the surrender and judicialization process?
De La Espriella announced he will provide instructions to the designated Minister of Defense to coordinate the procedures necessary for the capture and judicialization of the two leaders. He emphasized that the involvement of the Attorney General’s office is essential to ensure the entire process remains within the legal framework.
The president-elect intends to request that Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo designate a specific prosecutor and a group of judicial police to accompany the proceedings. This coordination is intended to ensure that the judicialization follows Colombian law.
What is the deadline for other criminal organizations?
During a Sunday speech in Barranquilla, De La Espriella issued a warning to the remaining members of criminal groups across the country. He stated that other criminals have less than a month to make the same decision to submit to justice.
“A los demás criminales les digo claramente: les queda menos de un mes para tomar la misma decisión. De lo contrario, lo van a lamentar,” De La Espriella said. The president-elect had previously established August 7, 2026, as the deadline for all groups to surrender before he assumes the presidency and applies the full weight of the law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the leaders of ‘Los Pepes’ that are surrendering?
The leaders are Digno José Palomino and Aldair Montealegre.
What is the deadline for criminal groups to submit to justice?
The deadline set by President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella is August 7, 2026.
Who will oversee the judicial process for these individuals?
The process will involve the Minister of Defense and a prosecutor and judicial police group to be designated by Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo.
Will the surrender of these leaders significantly impact security in the Atlántico department?
