Capture of 'Chalá,' suspected of journalist's murder, legalized

A judge has legalized the capture of José Gilberto Sánchez Giraldo, known by the aliases 'Chalá' and 'Víctor Chalá.' Authorities accuse him of orchestrating the disappearance and subsequent murder of journalist Mateo Pérez Rueda. The crime, which shocked Colombia, occurred on May 7 in the rural area of Briceño, Antioquia.

Sánchez Giraldo, identified by military intelligence as a high-ranking commander within Structure 36 of the FARC dissidents, was apprehended at a toll booth in Flandes, Tolima. The arrest was part of a significant operation involving specialized police units. He was not alone; five members of his security detail and logistics team were also detained.

Prosecutors have charged 'Chalá' with terrorism, extortion, and aggravated conspiracy to commit a crime. He is considered a trusted associate of 'Primo Gay,' a key leader of the armed dissident faction operating in northern and lower Cauca regions of Antioquia. Police information indicates Sánchez Giraldo has over a decade of criminal activity.

Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the captured leader aimed to expand the group's influence and financial operations into Huila and Caquetá, seeking to control illicit economies and establish a presence in those regions. The confiscated arsenal and equipment highlighted the group's firepower and financial resources.

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Cualquiera que fuera el sector, ya sea a financiarse, a controlar minas o a estacionarse en Huila y Tolima, nada