Miguel Uribe Turbay's murder: four video calls, evidence against the man responsible for locating the minor who murdered the senator

A Colombian court has sentenced Harold Daniel Barragán Ovalle to 21 years and four months in prison for his role in the assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a prominent political figure who was killed on June 7, 2025. The conviction stems from evidence gathered by Colombia’s Attorney General's Office, which showed that Barragán participated in planning the attack through four video calls. He was found guilty of aggravated homicide, conspiracy to commit crimes, using minors to commit offenses, and possession of firearms. The killing of Senator Uribe Turbay shocked the nation, as he was a high-profile figure in Colombian politics and had been considered a potential presidential candidate. According to investigators, the assassin was a minor who carried out the shooting under orders. This teenager, known to have committed thefts and used drugs, lacked experience with weapons but believed he would be rewarded after the act. However, he did not receive any promised compensation. Barragán Ovalle played a central role in orchestrating the crime. Sources close to the investigation revealed that the perpetrators anticipated the minor would be killed by the senator’s security detail during the attack. To avoid this outcome, Barragán took responsibility for ensuring the minor’s safety and involvement in the operation. His cooperation with prosecutors led to a plea deal that reduced his sentence compared to a possible maximum penalty. According to the Attorney General's Office, the evidence presented included detailed records of Barragán’s participation in four video calls that coordinated actions before and after the attack. These communications were crucial in establishing his role in identifying the location where the assassination took place. Investigators confirmed that Barragán belonged to a criminal group based in Bogotá, specializing in selective homicides and drug trafficking. The murder of Senator Uribe Turbay was viewed as another assignment for this network. Barragán Ovalle formally admitted guilt and accepted the charges against him. As part of his agreement with prosecutors, he agreed to serve his sentence in prison rather than seeking alternative forms of punishment. A judge denied his request for house arrest and imposed a fine equivalent to 16,350 monthly minimum wages in effect for 2025. The ruling marked a significant step in the legal process surrounding the case, bringing one of the key figures behind the assassination to justice. The investigation into the assassination has uncovered multiple layers of coordination among individuals linked to organized crime. Prosecutors emphasized that the use of minors in such violent acts highlights the severity of the offense and the need for stronger measures to prevent similar incidents. The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities and the challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing these issues effectively. Authorities continue to pursue other suspects involved in the plot, including those responsible for providing the weapon used in the attack and those who may have facilitated the escape of the perpetrators. The trial of Barragán Ovalle has set a precedent for how such cases will be handled moving forward, particularly regarding the prosecution of individuals who orchestrate crimes involving vulnerable groups like minors. The sentencing of Harold Daniel Barragán Ovalle underscores the complexity of the investigation into the assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay. It also reflects the ongoing efforts by Colombian authorities to hold accountable those involved in politically motivated violence. With further trials expected, the focus remains on uncovering all aspects of the crime and delivering justice to the victim’s family and the public.