Rebel Leaders Arrested Over Senator’s 2025 Killing
The Colombian Attorney General has issued new arrest warrants today targeting seven prominent members of the Segunda Marquetalia rebel faction, linking them to the 2025 murder of Senator Miguel Uribe.
Key Suspects
- Ivan Luciano Marin Arango (alias “Ivan Marquez”) – seasoned guerrilla commander
- Gener Garcia Molina (alias “Jhon 40”) – senior rebel operative
- Kendry Tellez – alleged main organizer of the hit
Investigators suspect that Ivan Marquez and other suspects may be hiding in Venezuela.
The Murder
- Victim: Senator Miguel Uribe, a prominent right‑wing politician from a well‑known family.
- Location: Campaign rally in Bogotá.
- Impact: Marked the worst political violence in nearly twenty years, echoing the turbulent 1980s and 1990s when drug cartels targeted presidential candidates.
Legal Context
Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo described the attack as a “structured criminal operation” run by an urban gang. She revealed that Kendry Tellez allegedly arranged a payment of 1 billion pesos (≈ $250,000) for the hit during meetings near the Venezuelan border. No further details on political motives were provided.
Prior Convictions
- Simeon Perez – 22‑year sentence for acting as liaison between rebel leaders and urban killers.
- Two others – 21‑year terms for surveillance and logistics.
- Minor shooter – sentenced under juvenile law.
Background of Segunda Marquetalia
The group split from the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) after signing a 2016 peace deal, only to re-enter armed conflict three years later over unmet government promises. They have resumed peace talks in 2024 as part of President Gustavo Petro’s initiative to end Colombia’s sixty‑year internal conflict.
Significance
These developments underscore the ongoing challenges of ensuring political stability in a country still healing from decades of violence. The arrest warrants signal a decisive effort to hold those responsible for targeted political killings accountable.
