Full Breakdown
Colombia Issues Arrest Warrants for Rebel Leaders in Senator's Assassination
3/25/2026, 5:20:58 AM
Arrest Warrants Issued
On March 24, 2026, Colombia's Attorney General Luz Adriana Camargo announced the issuance of arrest warrants for seven leaders of the Segunda Marquetalia rebel group in connection with the assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe. Uribe, a prominent political figure and presidential hopeful, was shot during a public campaign event in Bogotá in June 2025. This incident marked the most severe outbreak of political violence in Colombia in nearly two decades, reminiscent of the violent political climate of the 1980s and 1990s when several presidential candidates were murdered.
The warrants specifically target Ivan Luciano Marin Arango, known as Ivan Marquez, and Gener Garcia Molina, referred to as Jhon 40. Authorities have labeled the assassination a "magnicide," alleging it was part of a broader attempt to destabilize Colombia's democracy. Investigators believe that Marquez and other suspects are currently hiding in Venezuela.
Investigation Details
The investigation into Uribe's assassination has progressed significantly, with nine individuals already prosecuted. Among them, Simeon Perez received a sentence of over 22 years for facilitating communication between the rebel leadership and the hired assassins. Two additional individuals were sentenced to 21 years for their roles in surveillance and logistics, while a 15-year-old minor, identified as the shooter, was sanctioned under juvenile laws. The charges against the suspects include aggravated homicide and conspiracy.
Attorney General Camargo described the assassination as a "structured criminal operation" involving a hired urban gang. The alleged mastermind, Kendry Tellez, is accused of coordinating a payment of 1 billion pesos (approximately $250,000) for the assassination during meetings near the Venezuelan border. Camargo stated that the murder was politically motivated, linked to Uribe's roles as a senator and candidate, although she did not elaborate on the specific political motivations behind the attack.
Background of Segunda Marquetalia
Segunda Marquetalia is a dissident faction of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which had previously signed a peace agreement in 2016. However, the group resumed armed activities in 2019, citing unfulfilled government commitments. In 2024, they began new peace negotiations as part of President Gustavo Petro's broader initiative to resolve over six decades of internal conflict in Colombia.
Criticism & Opposition
The political landscape surrounding Uribe's assassination has been contentious, with various factions expressing differing views on the implications of the attack and the government's response. Critics argue that the resurgence of violence underscores the fragility of Colombia's peace process and raises concerns about the effectiveness of current government strategies to combat organized crime and political violence.
What's Next
As the investigation continues, the Colombian government is expected to intensify efforts to apprehend the suspects, particularly those believed to be in Venezuela. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for Colombia's political stability and ongoing peace negotiations.
