A patrolman of the National Police was allegedly kidnapped by an illegal armed group on a road in the municipality of Policarpa, Nariño

A police officer was reportedly kidnapped by an armed illegal group on a road in the municipality of Policarpa, Nariño, during the afternoon of Thursday, July 30, 2026. The officer, identified as Álvaro Jair Pístala Garrido, was traveling as a passenger in a public service vehicle after attending a medical appointment in the city of Pasto. Authorities are investigating the alleged kidnapping, which occurred in the jurisdiction of Policarpa, located in northern Nariño. According to a statement issued by the Nariño Police Department, the incident took place when the officer was being transported in a motor vehicle belonging to a public transportation service. Preliminary information suggests that the officer was intercepted by a group of heavily armed men who forced all passengers to exit the vehicle. The armed individuals asked for the identification of each passenger, and when it was the officer’s turn, they detained him against his will without providing any explanation. He was then taken in an unknown direction. The National Police activated its institutional response protocols immediately upon learning of the incident. In coordination with the Gaula unit of the National Police, intelligence capabilities, criminal investigation units, and competent authorities, operational and investigative actions have been initiated to locate the officer quickly, ensure his safety, and clarify what happened in that remote area of the Nariño department. The institution strongly condemned such acts, emphasizing that they violate human rights. The National Police categorically rejected this criminal act, calling it a serious violation of fundamental rights and an affront to those working for the security of Colombians. It urged the perpetrators of the kidnapping to respect the life and integrity of its employee and allow his immediate return safe and sound. The institution confirmed that it has deployed all its human, operational, investigative, and intelligence capacities to secure the release of the officer and bring those responsible for this condemnable act to justice. The region where this unfortunate case occurred is known to be under the influence of the Franco Benavides front of the dissident groups of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). This adds another layer of complexity to the situation, given the historical presence of armed groups in the area. Policarpa, located in the northern part of Nariño, is a municipality that has faced challenges related to security and law enforcement over the years. The incident involving Officer Pístala Garrido highlights the ongoing risks faced by security personnel operating in regions affected by armed conflict and instability. Local authorities have emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of their officers while pursuing the perpetrators of such crimes. The National Police continues to work closely with other security forces, including the military, to track down the officer's whereabouts and investigate the circumstances surrounding his detention. Intelligence operations are underway to gather more information about the group responsible for the kidnapping and to identify potential leads that could lead to the officer's location. Residents of the area expressed concern over the incident, noting the increased presence of armed groups in recent months. Some local leaders called for greater government intervention to address the growing insecurity in the region. Meanwhile, officials from the National Police reiterated their determination to resolve the case swiftly and hold those responsible accountable. The officer’s family has remained silent on the matter, though they are believed to be cooperating fully with the investigation. His colleagues within the police force have shown solidarity, expressing hope for his safe return. The incident has once again brought attention to the dangers faced by law enforcement personnel in conflict zones, prompting calls for enhanced protection measures and improved security strategies in vulnerable areas.