Colombia's President Confirms Death of Key Dissident Leader in Military Operation

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — A key leader of the dissident factions of the defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) was killed during a military operation on Sunday, according to President Abelardo de la Espriella. The individual, known as "Felipe" or "Arcadio," was reportedly active in a volatile area of the country's southwest region. De La Espriella described the death as a significant setback for the dissident faction led by "Iván Mordisco." The president shared a video on X that appears to show a body bag alongside weapons and ammunition seized during the operation. De La Espriella stated, "We are closing the net on Mordisco and his networks," and emphasized that military operations against illegal armed groups would persist, warning that "Any criminal who doesn't surrender will end up in a body bag." The president indicated that "Felipe" was involved in multiple attacks on police stations in Valle del Cauca, utilizing explosives dropped from drones and was responsible for various criminal activities, including extortion and attacks on military units. This announcement follows a series of similar declarations made by de la Espriella since he took office, reflecting a shift in policy from his predecessor, Gustavo Petro. The president has urged "Iván Mordisco" and other leaders to surrender to authorities. Additionally, on Friday, de la Espriella announced the capture of Emilio José Cordero Sierra, known as "Fantasma," who is wanted for extradition by the United States on charges related to terrorism and drug trafficking. The president also authorized the extradition of five suspects whose handover had been previously suspended as part of the peace process initiated by the previous administration, which de la Espriella has formally concluded through recent resolutions.