Assassination attack in Florida, Valle: Indigenous governor dies in massacre

Indigenous governor Julián Mauricio Gutiérrez was killed in a targeted assassination at a commercial establishment in Florida, Valle, Colombia. The attack, which occurred on August 1, also left two other people injured, with one succumbing to their wounds later.

“

The Police National in the department of Valle del Cauca informs that in the afternoon hours a sicarial attack occurred inside a commercial establishment in the municipality of Florida, where four victims resulted.

According to the Valle del Cauca Police commander, Brigadier General Sandra Liliana Rodríguez, the attack involved armed assailants who targeted four individuals at the establishment. "Two of those people unfortunately died and two are in a hospital center," she stated. "It should be noted that among the victims is the governor of the Kwesx Yu Kiwe indigenous resguardo, who had previously reported threats against his life and that of his family by an illegal armed group."

The Nasa indigenous community of Valle del Cauca, through its governing council and traditional authorities, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Gutiérrez. They confirmed his death occurred in the early hours of August 2, following the attack the previous day. The council lamented the passing of one of their "great leaders."

“

Two of those people unfortunately died and two are in a hospital center. It should be noted that among the victims is the governor of the indigenous resguardo Kwesx Yu Kiwe, who had previously reported threats against his life and that of his family by an illegal armed group.

Police are dedicating all investigative resources to identify and apprehend those responsible for the "vile and atrocious assault." They are appealing to the public for any information that could aid in the capture of the perpetrators. The authorities strongly condemned the attacks against indigenous communities, particularly in the Valle del Cauca department.

“

Today the morning is gray, the life of one of our great leaders is extinguished, but we will honor his memory.