The three relatives killed in Bucaramanga for alleged reprisals in which would be alias 'Julito', the most dangerous and wanted hitman

Three family members were killed in Bucaramanga in what authorities suspect are retaliatory attacks linked to the notorious drug trafficker known as alias "Julito," a 18-year-old considered one of the most dangerous and wanted criminals in the region. The latest killing occurred in the Los Canelos neighborhood, bringing the total number of fatalities tied to this alleged feud to three within less than a week. The victim, identified as Brian Espitia, was shot dead outside a commercial establishment by two men riding motorcycles. He received multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene. This incident follows the killings of his relatives Byron Johan Espitia Almeida and Cintia Valeria Espitia, both members of the same family. The victims were all connected through familial ties, suggesting a targeted attack against the Espitia household. Authorities have linked these murders to alias "Julito," a young man who has been implicated in at least 30 homicides. He allegedly fled a correctional facility in Bogotá earlier this year while still a minor. General William Quintero, a local official, stated that the killings could be part of a cycle of retaliation between "Julito" and the Espitia family. The situation has escalated into a series of violent incidents, prompting increased security measures and public concern. The police department is currently reviewing surveillance footage from the Los Canelos area in an effort to identify the perpetrators. A reward of up to 70 million pesos has been offered for information leading to the capture of "Julito." This incentive is supported by the regional government of Santander and the municipal authorities of Bucaramanga and Floridablanca. The authorities emphasize the urgency of locating the suspect due to the ongoing threat posed by his criminal activities. The case highlights the escalating violence associated with organized crime in the region. "Julito" is believed to operate within a broader network of criminal activity, which includes drug trafficking and other illicit enterprises. His youth and the high number of killings attributed to him underscore the severity of the threat he poses to community safety. The recent spate of murders has raised alarms among residents and law enforcement alike, with many fearing further escalation. Community leaders and local officials have called for greater collaboration between different agencies to address the root causes of such violence. They argue that addressing the underlying issues, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited economic opportunities, is essential to long-term stability. In the meantime, the focus remains on apprehending "Julito" and preventing further loss of life. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.