Attempted Murder of Colombian Senator: Suspected Hitman Arrested
Bogotá, Colombia — A 15-year-old has been arrested in connection with the attempted assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe, who is currently in critical condition following a shooting incident during a campaign event. The teenager, accused of being a hired hitman, has pleaded “not guilty” to charges of attempted murder and illegal possession of a firearm.
The shooting occurred on Saturday when Uribe was addressing supporters in Bogotá. Eyewitnesses reported that a young man approached and fired at least eight shots, striking Uribe twice in the head and once in the leg. Security personnel quickly apprehended the suspect, recovering a Glock 9mm pistol at the scene.
In a documented video of his capture, the alleged hitman claimed he was hired by a local drug dealer, stating, “I did it for the money, for my family.” Despite this confession, he maintained his innocence in court, where he faces potential rehabilitation instead of incarceration due to his minor status.
Impact on the Family and Community
Uribe’s wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, expressed her devastation outside the hospital, emphasizing, “No family in Colombia should be going through this.” She described the emotional turmoil as indescribable. Meanwhile, Uribe’s father, Miguel Uribe Londono, thanked supporters for their prayers, noting that his son’s plight has united many Colombians in rejecting violence.
Contextual Violence and Political Ramifications
This violent act occurs amid a broader wave of unrest in Colombia, with multiple bomb and gun attacks reported in the southwest, resulting in at least seven fatalities. These incidents are attributed to a faction linked to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), raising concerns about the resurgence of organized crime and political violence in the country.
President Gustavo Petro has suggested that an international crime ring may be involved in the attempt on Uribe’s life. He ordered enhanced security for government officials following the surge in violence. Uribe, a long-time critic of President Petro’s security policies, had previously requested increased protection, which highlights ongoing concerns regarding the safety of political figures in Colombia.
Indeterminate Motives and Future Proceedings
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, particularly as Senator Uribe was trailing behind other party candidates in the polls leading up to the attack. As the investigation unfolds, it is evident that the implications of this assassination attempt extend beyond Uribe’s health, reflecting deeper issues of political, social, and criminal instability in Colombia.
Further updates will provide insights into the investigation and its impact on the political landscape in Colombia.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.