Barranquilla Police Arrest Suspect in Murder of 'Infantil Rey Momo' Carnival King

In a significant development for Barranquilla, the Metropolitan Police have captured Leiner Jhoan Altamar Cabrera, a 34-year-old man identified as the prime suspect in the murder of Danilo Andrés Ramírez Barrios. The victim, a vibrant 17-year-old who was crowned the 'Infantil Rey Momo' (Child King of the Carnival) for the southern district's 2024 festivities, tragically lost his life after being shot on April 23rd. His death sent shockwaves through the city, highlighting the pervasive issue of violence affecting young people. The arrest, executed under a judicial warrant in the El Carmen neighborhood, marks a crucial step in the authorities' ongoing offensive against homicides. Commander Miguel Andrés Camelo Sánchez of the Barranquilla Metropolitan Police emphasized that such captures are integral to strengthening public order controls and pursuing individuals involved in high-impact crimes. The apprehension comes just days after the community mourned Ramírez Barrios, whose funeral was a poignant display of grief, marked by music, Junior football club flags, and cumbia steps. Videos circulating on social media captured the heartfelt tributes, underscoring the profound impact the young 'Rey Momo' had on his community. Ramírez Barrios succumbed to his injuries after four days in intensive care, following a cardiac arrest attributed to gunshot wounds to the chest. Initial reports suggest the attack occurred while the teenager was collecting a debt in the Rebolo neighborhood, escalating from a dispute over money. This incident has reopened painful wounds concerning the exposure of minors to violence linked to illegal economies, a stark reality for many in Barranquilla.

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This type of capture is part of strengthening public order controls and searching for people wanted for high-impact crimes.