Colombian Community Communicator Jader Durango Murdered in North of Country

Community leader and communicator Jader Durango was murdered in a rural area of Tierralta, Córdoba, a region known for the presence of criminal groups like the Clan del Golfo. Durango, 42, was a member of the Casup communication collective and recognized for his work in training youth in locution and community communication in the Batata village.

His body was discovered on Saturday along the road connecting La Sierpe and Murmullo, bearing multiple gunshot wounds. The NGO Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Indepaz) reported the killing, noting it brings the total number of social leaders assassinated in Colombia in 2026 to 82.

Indepaz highlighted that Tierralta is an area where the Clan del Golfo, also known as the Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (EGC), along with Los Caparros and other local criminal organizations, operate. The ongoing conflict between these groups for control of illegal routes and revenue has led to homicides, displacement, and threats against communities and social leaders, according to the Ombudsman's Office.

The Foundation for Freedom of the Press has reported that since 2022, about ten journalists have been killed in Colombia due to their reporting work.

“

the body of the leader was found on Saturday on the road that connects the sectors of La Sierpe and Murmullo, with multiple gunshot wounds.