Rifles, grenades and explosives: the arsenal found after an operation against dissidents in Tolima

The Tolima Department’s governor, Adriana Matiz, announced via her social media account that authorities have dismantled a criminal structure linked to the Farc dissidents known as Gerónimo Galeano. Four individuals were arrested and sentenced to 68 months in prison along with fines exceeding $2.3 billion for charges including conspiracy to commit crimes and illegal possession of weapons. The operation took place in the region of Santiago Pérez, near Puente Amarillo, where the suspects were allegedly tasked with monitoring a figure known as alias Richard and carrying out targeted killings against members of another faction of dissident groups. During the operation, police seized five rifles chambered in 5.56mm, pistols, grenades, improvised explosive devices, 45 detonators, one electric igniter, ammunition supplies, and 667 cartridges. Additional evidence included tactical clothing, wristbands, headscarves, and banners bearing symbols associated with the Gerónimo Galeano front and the Farc-EP. These items were found hidden in the area, suggesting a well-organized presence of the group within the department. The successful operation was attributed to the joint efforts of the Police Criminal Investigations Unit (Sijín) of the Tolima Police Department and the Infantry Battalion No. 17 of the Sixth Army Corps. Matiz praised the coordinated work of these forces, stating that their collaboration was crucial to achieving the results. She emphasized the importance of continued vigilance, noting that each dismantled criminal network brings greater security to residents of Tolima. Matiz reiterated that the government will not relent in its pursuit of criminals operating in the region. “We will continue our operations in a coordinated manner to arrest, capture, and dismantle those who threaten the peace of our department,” she stated. She urged the public to remain vigilant and assured them that justice would be served for all offenses committed. In response to recent incidents involving arson attacks on forests, Matiz has called on the Attorney General’s Office to investigate potential links between criminal activities and such acts. This request comes amid growing concerns over the safety of both communities and natural resources in the region. Local leaders and community representatives have expressed support for the ongoing efforts to combat organized crime, though some have raised questions about the effectiveness of current strategies in preventing future attacks. The captured individuals were part of the Gerónimo Galeano structure, which has been implicated in multiple violent incidents across the Tolima region. According to official reports, the group was engaged in intelligence-gathering and planning attacks against rival factions. Their apprehension marks a significant step in the broader campaign against armed groups operating in the area. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the specific tactics used during the operation or the extent of the threat posed by the group. However, the scale of the seizure, ranging from firearms to explosives, suggests a substantial level of preparedness among the dissidents. The discovery of tactical gear and symbolic materials indicates that the group maintains a visible presence and continues to operate under the banner of the Farc-EP. As the investigation progresses, local officials are expected to provide more information on the legal proceedings against the detained individuals and any additional measures being taken to prevent similar threats. The continued focus on dismantling criminal networks underscores the government's commitment to restoring stability and ensuring public safety in Tolima.