De la Espriella Tightens Measures in Prisons and Activates a Plan to Eliminate Benefits

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella implemented several measures in prisons this weekend, eliminating privileges and benefits for some inmates who had committed crimes, particularly corruption. Former Valle del Cauca governor Juan Carlos Abadia, serving a 21-year sentence for corruption, was moved from the Carabineros School in Cali to a common prison in Villahermosa.

De la Espriella stated that Abadia had been able to participate in politics, appoint officials, and decide on contracts due to his special privileges. Additionally, Edgar de Jesus Orrego, also known as 'Firu' and a leader of the Farc dissidents, was transferred from La Picota prison in Bogota to a maximum-security facility following allegations that he had been making live broadcasts and video calls to other criminals, including his subordinate 'Primo Gay' and making TikTok broadcasts.

The president ordered Edgar to be transferred to a prison without any external signals. In Buenaventura, where many convicted individuals continue to commit crimes and extort through calls, 120 men were transferred to maximum-security facilities. De la Espriella emphasized that no one is above the law in Colombia and that special pavilions are being designed to isolate the worst criminals, with a pilot plan already underway at Giron prison in Santander.

He also mentioned the feasibility of building a prison ship for housing the worst criminals and reported that the president has ordered the installation of a pilot pavilion at Giron prison with extreme security measures. De la Espriella clarified that while there will be a policy for those seeking a second chance, such as women, productive prisons, and minimum- and medium-security prisons, those who continue to generate fear and commit crimes will face strict measures.