Tension between community and police over ELN recruiter arrest in Chocó

Tensions flared in the municipality of Carmen de Atrato, Chocó, Colombia, as police attempted to apprehend a man identified as 'Alejandro,' who is accused of being a leader in recruiting minors for the National Liberation Army (ELN).

According to authorities, 'Alejandro' had three active arrest warrants for rebellion, illicit recruitment of minors, and criminal conspiracy. The incident occurred when police intercepted a bus traveling from Carmen de Atrato to Ciudad Bolívar. During the operation, members of the local indigenous community reportedly obstructed the police, preventing the immediate capture of the suspect.

Video footage circulating on social media shows police officers confronting the bus and one officer striking the door with a baton amidst the community's resistance. Despite the initial obstruction, law enforcement eventually succeeded in detaining 'Alejandro.' He is to be handed over to the Prosecutor's Office to face charges for the alleged crimes. The police also stated they would present individuals who interfered with the operation to the investigative authorities.

Nubia Carolina Córdoba, the governor of Chocó, acknowledged the tense situation between the community and law enforcement during the procedure. However, she confirmed that the bus was eventually allowed to proceed and that electoral activities in the region continued without significant disruption. Córdoba reported that voting had commenced normally across the department, with only minor issues related to electricity and connectivity.

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Durante el operativo la comunidad indígena no permitió proceder con la captura del sujeto. El bus cubría la ruta Carmen de Atrato (Chocó) a Ciudad Bolívar (Antioquia)