Colombia News

Georgina Epiayú, a 72-year-old member of the Wayuu ethnic group, has become the first trans woman registered in her community after a 45-year struggle to obtain official recognition. According to Epiayú, securing the "F" designation on her national ID required extensive paperwork and persistence, a journey chronicled in the upcoming documentary "Alma del desierto," set to premiere in Brazil on January 30, 2024, and in Colombia on May 1, 2024. Epiayú, initially born as Jorge, transitioned late in life, officially changing her name in 2021 after multiple attempts since 1975. She faced significant hardship, compounded by economic vulnerability and community transphobia, hindering her access to basic needs such as health insurance and food subsidies. Mónica Taboada-Tapia, director of the documentary, highlighted systemic issues affecting the Wayuu, including low literacy rates in Spanish, which complicate dealings with bureaucratic institutions. Despite her challenges, Epiayú's resilience shines through, as she hopes to inspire others within her marginalized community.

Deportation flights from the United States have recently arrived in Colombia as part of ongoing immigration controls, sparking discussions about the implications of such actions. The flights come as former President Donald Trump has again made headlines, joking about raising enough funds for a third term and stating his intent to "stoke fear" regarding current immigration policies. Colombian authorities are preparing to receive more deportees, emphasizing their commitment to manage the influx and provide necessary assistance. However, critics, including Chicago's mayor, have expressed concerns about the impact on communities and the perceived fear among immigrants. As the situation unfolds, it raises questions about the future of U.S. immigration policy and the bilateral relationship between the U.S. and Colombia.

In a significant milestone for the LGBTQ+ community in Colombia, Georgina Epiayú, a 72-year-old Wayuu woman, has received official recognition as a transgender individual after a 45-year-long struggle. Epiayú, who was born Jorge according to her birth certificate, fought tirelessly for her rights, culminating in the issuance of her updated identification card in 2021. A documentary titled "Alma del desierto," set to premiere commercially in Brazil on January 30 and in Colombia on May 1, chronicles Epiayú's life and challenges as she sought recognition in a community that struggles with transphobia and economic hardship. The film, produced over eight years, highlights her quest for dignity, which resonates with many other members of the Wayuu residing in both Colombia and Venezuela. Epiayú first applied to change her ID in 1975, but it took multiple attempts and decades of persistence before her triumph. The recognition has brought her one step closer to accessing vital civil rights, such as health insurance and food assistance. Economic stability remains a struggle, and she continues to rely on support from her community and friends. The documentary not only showcases Epiayú’s personal journey but also sheds light on broader issues faced by the Wayuu people, including lack of basic infrastructure and the impacts of transphobia. Director Mónica Taboada-Tapia emphasizes the strength of Epiayú's character, portraying her as a pillar of hope for many in marginalized communities. Through her experience, Epiayú challenges deeply ingrained societal norms and advocates for the rights of the transgender community, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change in Colombia and beyond.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro is embroiled in a scandal just as tensions rise between Colombia and the United States over a tariff dispute. A video surfaced allegedly showing Petro walking hand-in-hand with transgender newscaster Linda Yepes, leading to accusations of infidelity against his wife, philanthropist Veronica Alcocer. The video gained traction on social media, particularly in the traditionally conservative country where public reaction has been notably negative. This scandal coincides with a heightened diplomatic conflict with the U.S., as President Donald Trump threatened a 25% tariff on Colombian goods in response to Colombia's refusal to accept two military aircraft loaded with deported migrants. Within hours, Colombia reversed its stance, agreeing to Trump's terms to accept all deported immigrants, which led to the U.S. not imposing tariffs after this concession. Amidst the fallout, Petro has publicly denied the allegations of infidelity and stated he does not support transphobia, while calling out the societal discrimination that has arisen from the controversy. However, the incident has intensified public scrutiny towards Petro, who already faces significant backlash for his reform agenda, and has seen family members implicated in corruption charges. As the political situation unfolds, both the tariff issue with the U.S. and Petro's personal controversies remain pressing topics in Colombian society.

Georgina Epiayú, a 72-year-old Wayuu woman, has achieved a significant milestone in her long journey for recognition as a trans woman after a 45-year struggle. Recently, she finally obtained an ID card that officially recognizes her identity, marked with an "F" for female. Epiayú, the first of her kind from the Wayuu ethnic group, underwent numerous applications and faced societal rejection in her pursuit of this vital recognition. Epiayú's story is featured in the upcoming documentary “Alma del desierto,” which highlights the discrimination and economic hardships faced by the Wayuu people, particularly those identifying as LGBTQ+. The film sheds light on Epiayú's efforts, capturing the myriad challenges she encountered, including the disapproval of her community and the abandonment by her family. Despite living in poverty, Epiayú has remained resilient, relying on her small business in Uribia to survive. The Wayuu community, spanning both Colombia and Venezuela, often struggles with unfamiliarity with governmental processes and language barriers, making access to civil rights even more difficult. While Colombia has made strides in recognizing LGBTQ+ rights, many community members remain marginalized due to systemic issues. The documentary’s director, Mónica Taboada-Tapia, emphasizes the importance of showcasing Epiayú’s ordeal, as it reflects broader struggles shared by many in Latin America. Epiayú hopes that her story, once released on January 30 in Brazil and May 1 in Colombia, will serve to inspire others and shed light on the ongoing issues of transphobia and economic precarity in her community.

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly denounced U.S. President Donald Trump as a "white slave owner" just before Colombia capitulated in a tariff war with the United States. The confrontation arose after Trump announced sanctions on Colombia, including a 25% tariff on Colombian goods and visa revocations for government officials, following Colombia's refusal to permit U.S. military aircraft involved in deporting illegal immigrants to land. Petro responded by imposing retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, igniting a tariff war. However, shortly after, the Colombian government agreed to Trump's terms, which involved allowing the military planes to enter Colombian airspace. In a post on social media platform X, Petro passionately criticized Trump's stance, asserting that he and the Colombian people are not inferior. He emphasized his commitment to fight against what he perceives as American domination, stating, “I do not want slave owners near Colombia; we’ve had plenty of those, and we freed ourselves.” Petro’s remarks reflect broader sentiments of resistance to outside interference as he expressed a desire for freedom and respect for his nation. Despite the resolution of the tariff standoff, tensions between the two leaders remain palpable.

In a significant diplomatic shift, Colombia has consented to all terms set by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the deportation of Colombian immigrants. This decision comes after a threatened tariff war that began when Trump announced a 25% tariff on Colombian goods due to Colombia's refusal to permit U.S. military flights for deportation purposes. The White House confirmed on Sunday that the Colombian government would accept the return of illegal Colombian nationals from the United States without restrictions. Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo indicated that the country has overcome previous obstacles and is prepared to comply with the agreement. In light of this development, the U.S. will hold off on the sanctions previously stated by Trump, but it warned that these sanctions could be reinstated if Colombia fails to honor the agreement. However, existing visa sanctions on Colombian officials and their allies will remain in place until the first deported individuals are successfully returned. Colombia's earlier stance had included plans to impose tariffs on U.S. imports in response to Trump's threats. Historically, Colombia has been a close ally of the U.S. and enjoyed a free trade agreement, making this recent turn of events notable in the context of U.S.-Colombia relations.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro is embroiled in controversy following a viral video suggesting infidelity with transgender newscaster Linda Yepes, coinciding with a tariff dispute with the United States. The situation escalated after President Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Colombian goods in retaliation for Colombia's refusal to accept deported migrants. In response, Colombia initially announced a reciprocal tariff; however, just hours later, they agreed to all of Trump's terms regarding the deportation of migrants. This shift has been interpreted as a political victory for Trump, as it implies compliance from Colombia to accept returning migrants. Meanwhile, the video purportedly showing Petro with Yepes, who is Colombia's first transgender television presenter, has sparked outrage across the traditionally conservative nation, where 70% of the population identifies as Catholic. While Petro has denied any infidelity claims, the backlash includes accusations of misusing public funds and criticisms from both sides of the political spectrum. Petro has publicly addressed the issue, emphasizing his heterosexuality and denouncing the transphobia surrounding the incident. However, Yepes has reported receiving death threats since the video's release, illustrating the social tensions resulting from the scandal. This contentious political backdrop comes as Petro's administration faces widespread protests due to his reform plans and ongoing legal issues involving corruption allegations against his family members. The situation continues to evolve as both the domestic and international ramifications of these events unfold.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has offered the use of his presidential plane to facilitate the repatriation of migrants from the United States after facing strong pressure from former President Donald Trump. The decision comes on the heels of Trump’s threats to impose significant tariffs on Colombian goods and other retaliatory measures due to Petro's refusal to accept deportation flights from the U.S. In a statement translated from Spanish, the Colombian government asserted that the presidential plane would be used to ensure a "dignified return" for Colombian nationals set to arrive from these deportation flights. This concession reflects a significant shift in Petro's stance, who had previously rejected U.S. deportation flights, arguing that Colombia should not treat its citizens as criminals. Trump responded to Petro's rejection by announcing a 25% tariff on Colombian imports and threatening further penalties if the Colombian government continued to refuse the flights. Colombia subsequently retaliated, hinting at escalating tariffs on U.S. goods. The diplomatic relations between the two countries have become increasingly strained, with both leaders exchanging threats as they navigate the contentious issue of immigration and deportations in the context of U.S. policy reforms. Despite the tensions, Petro's decision to activate the presidential plane denotes a willingness to engage in negotiations with the U.S. regarding the treatment of returning migrants. As discussions continue, the implications for both U.S.-Colombia relations and the affected migrants are poised to unfold.

Georgina Epiayú, a 72-year-old trans woman from the Wayuu ethnic group in Colombia, has finally achieved recognition as a woman after a 45-year struggle to amend her ID. This landmark achievement is chronicled in the documentary "Alma del desierto," which sheds light on the discrimination and hardships Epiayú faced throughout her life. Epiayú, who was assigned male at birth, began her transition journey in 1975 but faced numerous obstacles in securing her ID with a female designation. In 2021, she became the first Wayuu trans woman officially recognized by Colombia's National Registry. The country has made strides in LGBTQ+ rights, particularly since the passing of Decree 1227 in 2015, which streamlined the process for changing one's name and gender on official documents. Living in Uribia, an area known as the indigenous capital of Colombia, Epiayú has dealt with economic struggles exacerbated by her late transition. Her limited means affect her access to essential services, highlighting the plight of the Wayuu people, who often lack adequate documentation and support from state institutions. The documentary, directed by Mónica Taboada-Tapia, captures Epiayú's journey and the broader issues faced by the Wayuu community, including severe poverty and transphobia. It illustrates how societal prejudices perpetuate the marginalization of LGBTQ+ individuals, not just within the Wayuu but across Latin America. The film, set to premiere commercially in Brazil on January 30 and in Colombia on May 1, emphasizes Epiayú's strength and resilience, as she navigates her community's stigma while seeking acknowledgment and basic rights.

The Colombian border city of Cúcuta is grappling with a significant humanitarian crisis as thousands of civilians seek refuge from escalating violence between rival rebel groups. Over a span of just four days, approximately 15,000 internally displaced individuals have flooded into the city, a surge described as “historic” by local officials. The conflict, primarily involving the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions refusing to disarm, has resulted in at least 80 confirmed deaths and the displacement of around 32,000 people. Reports indicate that civilians are being targeted indiscriminately, with fighters conducting door-to-door searches for sympathizers. Colombia's President Gustavo Petro announced plans to declare a state of "economic emergency" to assist the humanitarian effort as refugees continue to pour in, some arriving in dire conditions. Local accommodations are strained, leading authorities to utilize a football stadium to house migrants, with many arriving without proper clothing or belongings. The unrest marks one of the most severe episodes of violence in recent years, exacerbating an already critical situation in the Catatumbo region, known for its coca production and historical conflict. In response to the violence, Petro has called for increased military presence in the area while also halting peace negotiations with the ELN. Local leaders express growing concern over the ongoing crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for aid to support the influx of refugees and restore order as Colombia confronts what many describe as a renewed cycle of violence.

In a significant drug seizure, Colombian authorities confiscated 8.2 tons of cocaine at the Pacific port of Buenaventura, one of the nation’s busiest shipping hubs. President Gustavo Petro announced the operation, stating that the illicit drugs were hidden within sacks of mineral fertilizers destined for Europe. This operation marks one of the largest drug seizures in Colombia’s history, highlighting ongoing challenges the country faces in tackling drug trafficking. The government continues to intensify efforts against narcotics operations as part of its broader security strategy.

The Colombian border city of Cúcuta is facing a humanitarian crisis as an unprecedented influx of internal refugees seeks shelter from violent clashes between rival rebel factions. Over the past four days, approximately 15,000 people have arrived in the city, with reports indicating that at least 80 individuals have been killed and 32,000 displaced since fighting escalated. Mayor Jorge Acevedo described the situation as "historic for Cúcuta," noting the enormity of the refugee wave in comparison to previous outbreaks of violence in the region. The current conflict involves the National Liberation Army (ELN), Colombia's oldest active guerrilla group, as it attempts to eliminate competitors in a key cocaine-producing area. Civilians have been directly targeted in this violence, with rights groups reporting door-to-door searches for suspected sympathizers of rival factions. In response to the mounting crisis, President Gustavo Petro announced plans to declare an "economic emergency" to allocate funds for humanitarian aid. Additionally, he intends to suspend certain legal protections to address the escalating unrest. Local authorities report extreme conditions for those arriving, many in desperate need of assistance, lacking basic clothing and necessities. The situation further deteriorated with at least 20 deaths reported from ongoing fighting between drug trafficking factions in the Guaviare region. The escalating violence has disrupted education for around 46,000 children and hindered families from retrieving the bodies of their deceased loved ones for burial. The unrest represents one of the most severe humanitarian crises Colombia has faced in recent years, with many fearing it signals a new cycle of violence in a country still grappling with the legacies of decades-long conflict. Thousands of soldiers have been deployed to Cúcuta, but efforts to restore order have yielded minimal success thus far.

Colombia is grappling with a troubling wave of violence linked to clashes between armed groups, resulting in at least 80 fatalities and the displacement of 5,000 individuals, primarily in the Catatumbo region near the Venezuelan border. In a bid to control the escalation, President Gustavo Petro is considering declaring a state of emergency, which would grant exceptional powers to address the crisis. The violence has intensified since the beginning of the year, with a separate incident in the Guaviare department claiming 20 lives due to confrontations involving factions of the demobilized FARC. Local authorities report that morgues are overwhelmed, and some victims’ bodies may have been concealed by the groups involved in the fighting. Displaced individuals are reportedly fleeing to Venezuela, showcasing a reversal of the migration trend where Colombians are now seeking refuge due to violence at home. This displacement has amplified since January 17, with families arriving in Venezuelan towns, visibly distressed and carrying their belongings. Mayor Farid Camilo Castaño of Calamar city described the situation on the ground as "terrifying," highlighting the difficulties faced by local law enforcement in managing the unrest and protecting civilians. He noted the urgent need for national attention to the Guaviare region, which houses criminal activities such as illegal mining. Defense Minister Iván Velásquez acknowledged the challenges faced by the government while contending with multiple armed groups, emphasizing the complexity of targeting factions that are simultaneously engaged in dialogue with the national government. Experts and former officials caution that the ongoing violence is indicative of larger issues, including the strategic significance of regions laden with illicit activities and their implications for broader security and humanitarian concerns in Colombia.

A recent surge of guerrilla violence in Colombia has resulted in over 80 fatalities and the displacement of thousands within just four days. According to officials, the unrest is centered in the Catatumbo region, where the National Liberation Army (ELN) launched a brutal assault on rival groups, including dissidents from the formerly disbanded FARC guerrilla force. The violence erupted last Thursday, prompting the deployment of approximately 5,000 troops to the area as civilians fled in fear. Governor William Villamizar of Norte de Santander confirmed that many victims are civilians, with an estimated 5,000 individuals displaced from their homes. Reports indicate that ELN rebels have been targeting those suspected of ties to FARC dissidents, leading to increasing fears for the safety of peace signatories and social leaders. Terrified residents have sought refuge in makeshift shelters in Tibu and some have even crossed into Venezuela for safety. Venezuelan authorities have initiated operations to assist these displaced individuals. The humanitarian situation has been described as "alarming," with urgent calls for the establishment of safe corridors for civilians to escape the violence. Classes in the affected areas have been suspended, and schools are being repurposed as shelters. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has halted peace negotiations with the ELN amid the escalating conflict, as he seeks to address what he has termed "war crimes" committed by the group. The ELN remains one of Colombia's largest armed groups, deeply intertwined with the drug trade and organized crime, continuing a legacy of violence despite previous peace agreements aimed at ending decades of conflict.

A troubling alliance of Colombian dissidents, Brazilian organized crime groups, and Peruvian drug traffickers is wreaking havoc in the Amazon, particularly along the borders of Colombia, Peru, and Brazil. As coca leaf harvesting season commences, Indigenous communities in Colombia's Amazon brace for the influx of Peruvian "managers" crossing the river to recruit locals for labor in illegal cocaine production sites, often guarded by armed men. Recent reports highlight the increasing role of these criminal networks, particularly after the 2016 peace agreement in Colombia, which has led to a resurgence of trafficking activities in the Amazon region. The Colombian dissidents have formed strong ties with drug traffickers from Peru and Brazil, creating a complex web of illegal operations that exploit the area's natural resources. Illegal mining is also rampant, with reports indicating that criminal groups are using rivers like the Puré, Caquetá, and Putumayo to transport illicit goods. The profits from illegal mining and drug trafficking are substantial, posing significant challenges for local authorities lacking sufficient resources to combat these activities. The local environment is paying the price, with mercury contamination and deforestation becoming critical issues as illegal operations thrive in the absence of effective oversight. Law enforcement agencies in all three countries are struggling to contain the rapid growth of these criminal enterprises, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated regional efforts to restore safety and protect the Amazon.

A troubling alliance among Colombian dissidents, Brazilian organized crime groups, and Peruvian drug traffickers is deeply affecting the Amazon region, particularly at the borders of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. As coca leaf harvesting season begins, Indigenous people from the Colombian Amazon are increasingly exposed to danger while working in illegal coca farms across the river in Peru. These farms are guarded by armed individuals, creating a perilous environment for those involved in the coca trade. The cooperation between these criminal groups has intensified following the 2016 peace deal between the Colombian government and the FARC, leading to a rise in transnational crime in the region. Cocaine, marijuana, and valuable resources like gold and illegal timber are trafficked through this densely forested area, which is crucial for global climate regulation. Colombian authorities report increased activity from groups such as the Carolina Ramírez Front and the Border Commandos, who traffic illegal goods along rivers connecting Colombia to Brazil. Reports suggest they pay off officials to facilitate their operations, complicating efforts to combat crime in this remote region. Illegal mining has also surged, with extensive environmental damage resulting from the operations of illegal dredges. These activities provide significant profits for criminal organizations, further entrenching their power. Experts argue that addressing this "system" of crime requires a concerted effort from national and international authorities. As local communities increasingly engage in the illicit economy, concerns mount over the impact on public health, particularly with rising drug use among youth. In response, local leaders are attempting to create alternative activities, such as soccer tournaments, to distract younger generations from the dangers posed by the drug trade.

A coalition of Colombian dissidents, Brazilian organized crime, and Peruvian drug traffickers is increasingly overwhelming law enforcement in the Amazon region, particularly along the borders of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. As coca harvesting season begins, Indigenous communities in Colombia report an uptick in violence and drug trafficking activities that exploit the area’s natural resources. Indigenous resident Víctor, who has worked as a coca leaf scraper, describes the dangerous conditions he faces on the farms operated by drug traffickers, where he contends with armed guards and a treacherous environment. With the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating drug use among local teenagers, community leaders are distressed by the socio-economic pressures driving families to engage in illegal activities. This surge in drug trafficking has historical roots, tracing back to the dismantling of the FARC guerrilla's control after the 2016 peace agreement with the Colombian government. A new criminal landscape has emerged, with groups like the Comando Vermelho in Brazil strengthening ties with Colombian dissidents. Reports indicate that the region is not just a hub for cocaine, but also illegal gold and precious wood trafficking, posing threats to environmental sustainability. Military officials highlight the challenge of policing thousands of kilometers of dense jungle. They often rely on air operations for surveillance and intervention, facing persistent allegations of corruption among local law enforcement. As illegal mining operations proliferate, so do the profits, sustaining a cycle of crime that threatens the socio-environmental fabric of the Amazon. The ongoing conflict illustrates the deep interlinkages among drug trafficking, violence, and corruption in the Amazon, raising urgent calls for coordinated action among Colombia, Peru, and Brazil to address these pressing issues.

A troubling alliance of Colombian dissidents, Brazilian organized crime, and Peruvian drug traffickers is overwhelming authorities in the Amazon, particularly along the borders of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. With the resurgence of coca harvesting in the Peruvian Amazon, Indigenous communities are vulnerable to exploitation by "managers" facilitating the illegal drug trade. Reports indicate that residents, like Víctor, a 47-year-old Indigenous man, risk their lives by traveling to coca farms. They are often supervised by armed guards and face severe consequences if they attempt to escape or interact with outsiders. The situation has reportedly worsened since the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting increased drug use among local youth. The criminal nexus has expanded significantly since the peace agreement between the Colombian government and FARC in 2016. Colombian dissident groups, amid a backdrop of minimal state presence, have strengthened ties with Brazilian traffickers. This criminal synergy has transformed the region into a hub for cocaine, gold, and illegal mining operations. Authorities struggling to combat this transnational crime face significant challenges, including corruption among local officials. General Edilberto Cortés of the Colombian army has warned that illegal mining and drug trafficking are severely damaging the environment while generating substantial profits for these criminal networks. Efforts to reinstate governmental oversight have been largely ineffective due to logistical limitations and local complicity, allowing crime to flourish unchecked in this critical ecological landscape.

The Amazon region, straddling the borders of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, faces a growing crisis as Colombian dissidents, Brazilian organized crime groups, and Peruvian drug traffickers forge a dangerous alliance. This collaboration has intensified illegal activities, particularly drug trafficking and mining, overwhelming local authorities. In communities along the Colombian Amazon, indigenous people are caught in a cycle of dependency on drug production, with children exposed to drugs and dangerous working conditions. As coca harvesting begins, Peruvian "managers" cross the Amazon River to recruit workers, including local residents, to scrape coca leaves under perilous conditions. Reports reveal these areas are patrolled by armed guards, and any conversations with outsiders could prove fatal. The local population is increasingly engaging in these risky ventures, drawn by the allure of financial compensation and the dire economic situation exacerbated by the pandemic. In addition to narcotics, the Amazon’s lush environment is exploited for gold and other resources. Following the 2016 peace agreement with FARC, illegal mining and drug production surged as criminal organizations sought to capitalize on the region’s rich natural resources. The Colombian military’s efforts to curb these activities are hampered by insufficient resources and rampant corruption among officials. Experts warn that the environmental impact is severe, with mercury pollution from illegal gold mining threatening the ecosystem. The collaborative criminal network undermines both local and national governments, complicating law enforcement initiatives aimed at restoring order in this vital ecological area.

A troubling alliance between Colombian dissidents, Brazilian organized crime, and Peruvian drug traffickers is challenging governments in the Amazonian borderlands of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. This collaboration has intensified illicit activities, particularly cocaine production and illegal mining, in one of the world's most vital ecological regions. Indigenous communities residing along the Colombian Amazon River witness the dangers posed by this alliance. Individuals like Víctor, a 47-year-old Indigenous man, recount their experiences scraping coca leaves for Peruvian traffickers under the watchful eyes of armed guards. Despite the high risks, these short-term labor opportunities often lure entire families away from their villages. The emergence of this dangerous tripartite alliance can be traced back to the period following the 2016 peace agreement in Colombia, which saw the fragmentation of former guerrilla groups and a rise in criminal networks taking control of lucrative drug and mining markets. Colombian dissidents are now firmly entrenched in drug trafficking alongside Brazilian gangs like Comando Vermelho, enhancing their operations and expanding territorial control over the Amazon. Colombian military intelligence reports reveal two primary Colombian groups—the Carolina Ramírez Front and the Border Commandos—cooperating with drug trafficking networks to exploit this resource-rich region, often corrupting local authorities. The situation is exacerbated by persistent illegal gold mining, which has soared in the wake of a weakened state presence, leading to severe environmental degradation. Local authorities express frustration in addressing this issue as they lack adequate resources and coordination. Brigadier General Edilberto Cortés has stated that illegal mining operations are effectively a "system" that threatens ecological stability and undermines enforcement efforts. The lucrative returns from these operations fuel further criminal activities and undermine state authority. The international community, alongside local governments, faces urgent calls to intervene. The degradation of the Amazon not only impacts biodiversity but also contributes to broader climate change challenges. As criminal enterprises grow bolder, the window for effective action is rapidly closing.