Colombian Forces Eliminate Clan del Golfo Leader Behind Petro Assassination Plot

Colombian defense officials announced Monday the killing of Santander Franco Jiménez, a high-ranking Clan del Golfo commander who planned to assassinate President Gustavo Petro.

Military forces and police killed Jiménez, known as “Nino” or “Omar,” during an operation in El Dovio, Valle del Cauca. Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed the success alongside General Luis Carlos Córdoba, commander of Colombia’s Aerospace Force.

They described Jiménez as a 25-year veteran of the criminal organization. He served as a trusted confidant of the group’s maximum leader, alias “Chiquito Malo.” “Our military forces will protect the life of our president and every Colombian citizen,” Sánchez declared firmly.

The operation also resulted in the death of another cartel member. Security forces discovered four camps capable of housing 30 people. They seized 1,184 rounds of ammunition, seven magazines, and four improvised explosive devices.

Medical supplies and communications equipment completed the significant haul. Jiménez coordinated narcotrafficking activities and illegal economies along Colombia’s Pacific coast.

He sought to expand the group’s territorial control through armed cells throughout Valle del Cauca. Authorities held him responsible for numerous terrorist acts against civilians and security forces.

Colombia’s Efforts to Dismantle Clan del Golfo

The Clan del Golfo emerged following the demobilization of the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia in the mid-2000s. It has grown into Colombia‘s largest criminal structure with approximately 3,000 members. The organization controls crucial drug trafficking corridors along Colombian borders and coastal regions.

This operation follows February’s neutralization of Oliverio Isaza Gómez, alias “Terror,” another prominent Clan del Golfo leader. Both operations demonstrate the government’s determination to dismantle the organization’s command structure.

General Córdoba emphasized the operation’s strategic importance. “This decisive blow directly impacts the command capabilities of the Clan del Golfo,” he stated. “It disrupts drug trafficking routes both nationally and internationally.”

The successful mission unfolds amid Colombia’s ongoing security challenges. President Petro continues his “Total Peace” initiative while actively countering threats from criminal organizations.