Colombia Seizes 582 Phones in Prison Raid
Colombian prison officials searched 19 cell blocks at La Picota in Bogotá and seized 582 phones, 3,754 SIM cards and six Starlink dishes. The post Colombia Seizes 582 Phones in Prison Raid appeared first on The Rio Times .
On Tuesday, 3 November, Colombian President Abelardo De la Espriella announced the seizure of 582 mobile phones, 3,754 SIM cards and six Starlink satellite-internet dishes during a surprise search of La Picota prison in Bogotá. The presidential announcement marked the conclusion of a "mega-operation of registration and control" that involved searching 19 cell blocks across the prison.
La Picota, a significant facility located in the southern part of the capital city, is known for being a hotspot for criminal activities. The operation, overseen by the National Penitentiary and Prison Institute (INPEC), resulted in the seizure of additional items such as 38 modems and 356 bladed weapons. Additionally, narcotics and cash were discovered, though the exact quantities were not disclosed.
The raid is particularly noteworthy as Colombia's president has prioritized combating extortion rings that operate through prison phones, targeting businesses, firms, and residents throughout the country. The large quantity of SIM cards, which outnumber the phones by more than six to one, underscores the complexity of the operation.
The six Starlink dishes, which facilitate satellite internet access regardless of local infrastructure, have not been clarified as to their purpose or functionality. Despite the extensive search, the authorities have not revealed how these devices and materials entered the prison or the number of inmates implicated in the illicit activities.
The outcome of the investigation remains uncertain as it is still under analysis, and no arrests or charges have been officially announced.
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