Suspected FARC dissident leader captured in central Colombia

Colombian authorities have captured Anderson Castro, also known as Mono Huevo, a figure identified as a leader within dissident factions of the former FARC guerrilla group. The arrest took place in the Meta department, a central region of Colombia, according to an announcement by the Army on Tuesday.

The operation was a joint effort involving the Army, the Colombian Aerospace Force, the National Police, and the Prosecutor's Office. It occurred in La Esperanza, a rural village within the municipality of La Macarena. Following the capture, a group of local residents surrounded the military personnel involved in the operation, an act known as an 'asonada' in Colombia. Authorities stated that the situation was managed within legal protocols and with the oversight of the Municipal Ombudsman's Office.

The incident prompted Meta's governor, Rafaela Cortés, to condemn any attempts to hinder law enforcement actions. She expressed her full support for the Public Force, emphasizing that the apprehension of individuals breaking the law should not lead to pressure against security forces or judicial authorities. Cortés also called for continued institutional presence in areas influenced by illegal armed groups.

According to investigations, Castro has been active in dissident groups for approximately eight years. He is believed to be a commander within the Éver Castro group, which is part of the Jorge Suárez Briceño Bloc. Authorities accuse him of orchestrating extortion schemes targeting merchants, ranchers, and producers. He is also implicated in pressuring rural communities, promoting armed recruitment, and enforcing social control in the region. Legal proceedings against him are ongoing for charges including kidnapping, forced disappearance, and extortion.