A suspected Colombian gangster, believed to be linked to a dangerous drug cartel, was apprehended while attempting to enter the United States illegally in El Paso, Texas. Border Patrol Chief Jason Owens revealed that the man, whose identity remains undisclosed, had tattoos associated with the notorious Clan del Golfo, also known as the Gulf Clan, Colombia’s largest cocaine trafficker.
During a search, authorities discovered disturbing photos on the suspect’s phone depicting individuals being subjected to torture. The specific details of these images were not disclosed. Additionally, the suspect’s tattoos, including the phrase “I [heart] God” on his neck and teardrops beneath his right eye, indicated his affiliation with the gang.
This arrest is part of a larger trend of migrants with criminal backgrounds being intercepted at the US border. According to Customs and Border Patrol statistics, over 35,000 individuals with criminal histories were detained last year, with more than 10,000 apprehended so far in 2024.
The Clan del Golfo originated from former right-wing paramilitary groups that disbanded in the early 2000s. Since then, they have gained control over various communities, administering their own form of justice, imposing taxes on local businesses, and even employing children. The cartel’s leader, Dairo Antonio Úsuga David, was sentenced to 45 years in federal prison last year for smuggling large quantities of cocaine into the United States.
Úsuga David, also known as Otoniel, was considered the world’s most dangerous drug trafficker by Colombian President Ivan Duque. He led the Gulf Clan since 2012, employing brutal tactics such as ordering assassinations and torture of rival cartel members, suspected traitors, government cooperators, and even law enforcement officers.
Despite Úsuga David’s capture in 2021, the Gulf Clan has managed to maintain its power, boasting an estimated 9,000 fighters and generating over $4 billion annually, according to a report by the International Crisis Group. Recently, Colombian President Gustavo Petro extended an offer to initiate peace negotiations with the cartel if they cease drug trafficking, illegal taxation of local businesses, and profiting from migrant transit. The Gulf Clan responded by accepting the invitation but denied involvement in human smuggling operations.
1 Response
“Crime knows no borders, but neither does justice. This capture serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies are working tirelessly to protect our communities from the threats posed by organized crime.”
This quote resonates with the post because it highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating crime. It emphasizes that criminals may attempt to cross borders to evade capture, but law enforcement agencies are committed to ensuring that justice knows no boundaries. This passage also underscores the significance of apprehending individuals involved in dangerous drug cartels,