Bogotá: Colombia’s military confirmed the deaths of eight Gulf Clan cartel members after violent clashes in the northwest.
This comes shortly after police and the DEA killed “Chirimoya,” one of the cartel’s five top commanders.
Two more cartel members were captured during the same operation, according to official statements.
Authorities reported seizing large amounts of weapons and supplies in the raid.
The military shared details of the successful operation through social media posts.
Armed Offensive
The Gulf Clan originated from right-wing paramilitary forces active during the 1990s.
These groups originally fought leftist guerrillas before moving into the cocaine trade.
Today, the cartel profits from narcotics, illegal gold mining, and migrant smuggling.
Their criminal influence extends across Colombia’s northern border with Panama.
Officials estimate the cartel has between 6,000 and 9,000 members nationwide.
Recent Killings
The latest operation follows a string of recent offensives by Colombian forces.
Just last month, nine suspected cartel members died in government-led air strikes.
The authorities have intensified actions since peace efforts with the group collapsed.
Colombia’s current government has rejected negotiations with criminal organizations.
Instead, they’re launching coordinated efforts to dismantle major cartels.
Top Commander
On Saturday, “Chirimoya,” a high-ranking cartel commander, was killed by police and DEA agents.
He was considered one of the Gulf Clan’s five central leaders.
His death marked a significant blow to the cartel’s upper structure.
Following his killing, authorities prepared for potential retaliatory actions.
The latest raid may have preemptively disrupted those plans.
History Repeats
The Gulf Clan has a history of violent reaction to government actions.
In 2022, the cartel shut down dozens of towns after a leader’s extradition.
That four-day lockdown paralyzed northern Colombia and highlighted the cartel’s control.
Their reputation for swift, large-scale retaliation has long challenged law enforcement.
Authorities remain on high alert following any major strike.
Terror Label
The United States has designated the Gulf Clan as a foreign terrorist organization.
This label reflects their deep involvement in international drug trafficking.
It also enables joint US-Colombia efforts like Saturday’s operation against Chirimoya.
Washington continues to support Colombia’s crackdown on violent cartels.
US intelligence and resources assist Colombian military planning.
Military Strategy
The Colombian army is focused on neutralizing key leaders and financial networks.
By cutting supply chains and eliminating safe zones, the state weakens the cartel’s reach.
Recent raids have disrupted Gulf Clan routes used for drug and migrant smuggling.
Authorities target both rural hideouts and urban logistics hubs.
Security forces say operations will continue throughout the year.
Community Impact
The presence of the cartel has long impacted civilians in northern Colombia.
Illegal mining and extortion have hurt local economies and caused fear.
Many towns remain cautious after previous cartel-imposed shutdowns.
Government efforts aim to restore safety and state control.
Officials hope sustained action can weaken the cartel’s grip on communities.
