2 days Ago
Police believe the teen was hired as as paid sicario— or hitman— by a dealer in the region. Video recorded the moment he opened fire on Uribe — shooting the politician in front of a scrum of supporters. The teenager was detained by security personnel and a Glock 9mm pistol was seized.
The wounded suspect was heard in a video, verified by Reuters, saying, "I did it for the money, for my family." He nevertheless pleaded not guilty in court. As a minor, he could be sentenced to a maximum of eight years in a rehabilitation facility if found guilty.
Nation Recoils From Outbreak of Violence
The Uribe attack has sent shockwaves across the country and once again raised fears of political violence and organized crime. Uribe's wife, Maria Claudia Tarazona, said she was "filled with deep pain," while his father thanked Colombians for their showed of support and called for unity against violence.
The attack followed deadly violence in southwest Colombia in which at least seven people died in bomb and gun attacks believed to be associated with FARC dissident groups. These recent episodes have underscored Colombia's longstanding battle with armed organizations and drug trafficking.
Government Response and Political Controversies
The president, Gustavo Petro, accused an unnamed international crime ring for the attack on Uribe, but provided no evidence of his statements. Interior Minister Armando Benedetti suggested drug trafficking as an action of possible rebels, remarking on the growing dependency on the drug by such groups.
Petro has also asked for more security for government and opposition figures. Uribe, known critics of Petro's security policies, had apparently asked for extra bodyguards prior to the attack yet only two were available for him when he was ambushed.
