La Parada: Capture of “La Nona
- As of March 20,2025,Cúcuta,Colombia's largest border city,is grappling with a meaningful security crisis.
- The imposed curfew aims to contain the escalating situation.
- The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order and ensure the safety of Cúcuta residents.
Cúcuta Faces Security Challenges: ELN Attacks,Crime Ring Crackdown,and Arrest of Pastor
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ELN Attacks Trigger Security Crisis in Cúcuta
As of March 20,2025,Cúcuta,Colombia‘s largest border city,is grappling with a meaningful security crisis. A series of terrorist attacks attributed to the National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrilla group has prompted the Mayoralty to impose a curfew.
The imposed curfew aims to contain the escalating situation. However, residents are under lockdown, raising concerns about the guerrilla’s control over the departmental capital.
Curfew and Concerns
- Curfew imposed by the Mayoralty.
- Residents under lockdown.
- Concerns over guerrilla control.
The situation remains tense as authorities work to restore order and ensure the safety of Cúcuta residents.
Police Action: Blow to Criminality in Cúcuta with Multiple Arrests
In a coordinated effort under the “Seguridad 360” Shock Plan, the Metropolitan Police of Cúcuta (Mecuc), in conjunction with local and national authorities, have made significant strides in combating crime. Five men were captured for their alleged involvement in homicides.
This operation signifies a “duro golpe a la criminalidad en Cúcuta” (a hard blow to criminality in Cúcuta), demonstrating the commitment of law enforcement to tackle crime in the region.
Arrest of Pastor Linked to Heinous Crime
Adding to the complex security landscape, police in Cúcuta have confirmed the arrest of Christian pastor John Jairo Marín Velásquez. He was wanted for questioning regarding his potential involvement in the gruesome dismemberment of a church member.
According to reports, the pastor “estaba siendo buscado para aclarar su participación en el crimen” (was being sought to clarify his participation in the crime), highlighting the severity of the allegations.
Citizen Security and Criminal Networks
In a related development concerning citizen security, Marleny Lobo Duarte, also known as “La Nona” or “La Mamá,” was captured in the border neighborhood of La parada, near the Simón bolívar International Bridge. Her arrest is connected to the murder of citizen inspector Jaime Vásquez.
Brigadier General William Quintero, commander of the Cúcuta Metropolitan Police, stated that this woman allegedly coordinated the vehicles and weapons used in the crime that occurred on April 14, 2024, at a food establishment in Cúcuta.
According to General Quintero, ”Con esta captura se espera seguir avanzando para dar con otras personas vinculadas” (“With this capture, we hope to continue advancing to find other people involved”).He also noted the previous arrests of Harold Prieto, alias Lobo or Uzi, and Rafael Perea, alias ”El Gringo,” members of the criminal group “Los Lobos,” who are co-authors of this crime and will face charges of aggravated homicide and conspiracy to commit a crime.
Investigations suggest that the events were retaliation for denunciations made on social media against criminal groups.
Summary of Security Challenges in Cúcuta
Cúcuta faces a multifaceted security challenge, including:
- terrorist attacks by the ELN guerrilla.
- Organized crime and homicide.
- Allegations against community figures, such as the pastor.
Authorities are actively working to address these issues and restore stability to the city.
Cúcuta’s Security Crisis: A Q&A
Cúcuta, Colombia’s largest border city, is currently facing meaningful security challenges. This article provides a Q&A on the key issues, including ELN attacks, police actions, and the arrest of a pastor.
What Security Challenges Does Cúcuta Face?
Cúcuta