Captured alias Zarco, the ELN sniper, assassin of the commander of El Tarra
The capture represents an important advance in the fight against crime and violence in the North of Santander
In an important blow against the subversive armed organization of the ELN, the authorities announced the capture of Leonardo Galvis Quintero, alias 'Zarco', who is identified as the sniper responsible for the murder of the police commander of El Tarra, Norte de Santander, the past May 11.
Major Edison Andrés González Huertas lost his life in an act of violence perpetrated while carrying out a verification and control patrol in the municipality. Despite being transferred to the El Tarra military base and receiving first aid, the injuries were fatal.
The arrest of 'Zarco' occurred in the midst of the cessation of offensive actions by the ELN against the Public Force, which came into effect on Thursday, July 6. The capture represents an important advance in the fight against crime and violence in the region.
For his part, the Minister of Defense, Iván Velásquez, emphasized that intelligence work by the Army, the Military Forces and the Police will not be suspended. These tasks are essential to guarantee security and order in the region.
Given these facts, the Ombudsman's Office urged the competent authorities to protect the inhabitants of municipal capitals and rural areas of Norte de Santander.
The murder of three policemen and the attack with explosives in a mine are clear signs of the need to implement solid plans and actions to safeguard the communities and move towards the total peace sought by the national government.
The capture of 'Zarco' represents an important step in the fight against impunity and violence in the region, and it is expected that the judicial process will continue its course so that justice is done in this case and the safety of the officers is guaranteed.