Introduction

Colombia has long been a major player in the global drug trafficking market, with a history of powerful drug cartels such as the Medellín and Cali cartels. While these organizations have largely been dismantled, new and evolving groups have taken their place. This article explores the current state of active cartels, guerrilla groups, and paramilitary factions in Colombia.

Active Cartels and Organized Crime in Colombia

Colombia's organized crime landscape has changed significantly over the years. While the traditional drug cartels are no longer the dominant forces, several new and smaller groups have emerged and continue to operate with varying levels of success. These groups often engage in a range of criminal activities, from drug trafficking to extortion and violence. Some of the notable active organizations include:

Clan del Golfo (Gulf Clan)

The Gulf Clan is one of the largest and most powerful criminal organizations in Colombia, involved in drug trafficking, extortion, and other criminal activities. It has a significant influence over regions and has been responsible for several violent incidents.

ELN (Ejército de Liberación Nacional)

Though primarily a guerrilla group, the ELN is also involved in drug trafficking and has significant control over drug production areas. These activities make it one of the important players in the Colombian drug trade.

DAG (Drogas y Alcoholes de la Guajira)

DAG is known for its involvement in drug trafficking and has been linked to various violent incidents. It operates in the northern region of Colombia and poses a significant threat in drug trafficking.

Los Pelusos

This smaller group emerged in northeastern Colombia and is heavily involved in drug trafficking and criminal activities. Despite its size, it poses a serious threat to regional security.

Los Caparros

Another criminal group involved in drug trafficking, Los Caparros has engaged in violent confrontations with other groups, highlighting the complex dynamics of regional criminal activities.

Paramilitary and Guerrilla Groups

The Colombian government has implemented various peace agreements aimed at reducing the influence of paramilitary and guerrilla groups. However, many of these groups continue to operate under new names and structures, often conducting lucrative illegal activities.

Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia (Gulf Clan)

The Gulf Clan, originally part of the AUC (United Self-Defenses of Colombia), is one of the most powerful criminal organizations in Colombia. With an estimated 3,000 members, the Gulf Clan operates with a structure that closely resembles a traditional cartel.

Guerrilla Dissident FARC

Despite the demobilization of the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia), a significant portion of its members formed dissident groups that continue to operate in areas where the FARC previously had control. These groups are involved in drug trafficking and territorial disputes.

ELN (Ejército de Liberación Nacional)

The ELN (National Liberation Army) is another communist guerrilla group that has evolved into a major drug trafficking organization. They engage in disputes over frontier zones and have a significant presence in parts of Colombia.

Crime Syndicates and International Cartels

Colombia is not only a producer but also a transit route for drugs. Various international cartels have established a presence in the country, leveraging local criminal networks to facilitate their operations. Notably, several Mexican cartels, including the Sinaloa Cartel and Jalisco Nueva Generación, have a significant presence in Colombia.

Envigado Office

The Envigado Office is one of the deadliest crime syndicates in Colombia. While it has traditionally been involved in drug trafficking, its activities have diversified, providing services to lower-level drug traffickers and other criminal groups. This makes the Envigado Office a significant player in the regional criminal landscape.

Mexican Cartels

Mexican cartels like the Sinaloa Cartel, Los Zetas, and Jalisco Nueva Generación have established partnerships with local criminal groups in Colombia. These partnerships involve direct business deals with peasant farmers, the establishment of distribution and production lines, and the exploitation of key territories.

Conclusion

The landscape of organized crime in Colombia is complex and ever-evolving. While the traditional drug cartels may no longer hold the same power they once did, new and evolving groups have taken their place. Understanding the dynamics of these groups is crucial for effective law enforcement and policy-making efforts to mitigate the impact of drug trafficking and criminal activities in the country.