High-ranking FARC dissident leader alias Primo Gay captured in Antioquia

Colombian authorities conducted a successful operation in northern Antioquia that resulted in the capture of Néider Yesid Uñates López, a high-ranking leader of FARC dissidents known as alias Primo Gay. The arrest took place in the Santa Ana village within the municipality of Briceño. The operation was a coordinated effort involving the Colombian Army's Seventh Division, the National Police, and the Office of the Attorney General. During the raid, officials arrested two individuals and seized two 9 mm caliber pistols along with magazines and ammunition.

Criminal profile and allegations

Néider Yesid Uñates López is identified as a leader within the FARC dissidents, specifically linked to the 36th Front and sub-structure 5 under the command of alias Calarcá. Authorities stated that the suspect was wanted in Antioquia for several serious crimes, including aggravated homicide, aggravated conspiracy to commit a crime, extortion, and illegal mining. Colombian media reported that Uñates López was allegedly involved in an alliance with the ELN and had been involved in confrontations with the Clan del Golfo.

Further reports indicated that the suspect was allegedly linked to the installation of landmines and attacks using drones. One Colombian media outlet reported that Uñates López was allegedly involved in an attack against a Police Station in Briceño. Additionally, reports suggested his involvement in the use of manuals of coexistence. The President of Colombia, Abelardo de la Espriella, confirmed the operation and the seizure of weapons, stating that the operation is a significant blow against the command structures of narco-terrorism and is helping to recover territorial control.

Regional security and humanitarian concerns

The capture occurred amidst a period of increased military pressure in the municipalities of Briceño and Yarumal. The Governor of Antioquia, Andrés Julián Rendón, confirmed the capture via social media and stated that the Public Force captured Primo Gay, a criminal who caused much damage through various means in the 36th Front of the FARC and the Clan del Golfo.

Despite the success of the operation, the Defender of the People issued an Early Warning of Imminence regarding the region. The Defender of the People warned that the arrest is a key blow to justice, but rural populations remain at risk due to armed disputes and child recruitment. The region continues to face humanitarian risks stemming from disputes between FARC dissidents, the Clan del Golfo, and the Guerrillas Campesinas Los Cabuyos. Authorities previously offered a reward of $640 million for information regarding the suspect.

Glossary

• FARC dissidents — FARC dissidents are groups of former members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) who refused to lay down their arms after the 2016 peace process. They are involved in the production and sale of cocaine.
• Clan del Golfo — The Clan del Golfo is a prominent Colombian neo-paramilitary group and the country's largest drug cartel. It is also known as the Gaitanist Self-Defense Forces of Colombia or the Gaitanist Army of Colombia.
• Antioquia — Antioquia is a department in Colombia. It has a history of administrative power centered in Medellín.
• Briceño — Briceño is a municipality in Colombia. It is a location where military and police operations have taken place.