BTN News: In a significant move against organized crime, authorities in Medellín have dismantled a notorious drug trafficking network known as “El Morro de Villa Flora,” resulting in the arrest of 25 individuals. The organization, which allegedly operated across the neighborhoods of Castilla and Robledo in Medellín, is accused of conducting extensive drug trade operations and extortion. With these arrests, the city’s law enforcement hopes to deliver a decisive blow to the criminal activities that have plagued these areas. According to official sources, the network was collecting an estimated 120 million pesos per day through its illicit endeavors.
Dismantling a Drug Empire: The Raid That Brought Down “El Morro de Villa Flora”
Following months of meticulous investigation, the Colombian Prosecutor’s Office coordinated an extensive operation involving the Technical Investigation Team (CTI) and the National Police. In a series of 33 simultaneous raids, authorities apprehended 25 suspects allegedly linked to the organization. The crackdown resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of marijuana, cocaine, various caliber cartridges, gun magazines, and 124 million pesos in cash.
But what stood out most in these operations was the discovery of items believed to be part of strange rituals. The agents found objects such as toy balls, skull figurines, mouse traps, and other seemingly unrelated items arranged in a circle on a wicker mat. These peculiar findings suggest that the organization’s activities might have involved more than just drugs and extortion.
“Bruja” and the Rituals: The Alleged Occult Practices Behind Medellín’s Drug Trade
Among those arrested, Andrés Felipe Moreno Valderrama, alias “Bruja,” is suspected to be a key figure in these ritualistic practices. According to the prosecutor’s office, Moreno, also identified as a potential coordinator within the criminal network, allegedly conducted rituals meant to protect members of the group from law enforcement actions. Furthermore, Moreno is under investigation for his suspected involvement in the forced disappearance of a man known as “Mapache,” who has been missing since November 24, 2023.
Family Ties: Key Figures Within the Criminal Organization Revealed
Adding a surprising twist to the case, several of the detained individuals are related. Rubén Darío Flórez Urrego, alias “Carloto,” identified as the alleged leader of the group, was arrested along with his romantic partner, Nasly Viviana Carvajal Díaz, alias “Vivi”; his son, Darley Esteban Flórez Carvajal, alias “Esteban”; his sister-in-law, Leidy Carolina Echavarría Díaz, alias “Caro”; and his mother-in-law, Luz Dary Hernández, alias “Doña Luz.” These familial connections illustrate the deeply entrenched nature of the organization and its operations.
Legal Actions and Charges: What’s Next for the Accused?
With substantial evidence in hand, the prosecutor’s office has charged the suspects with several offenses, including aggravated conspiracy to commit a crime, drug trafficking, illegal possession of firearms, and other weapons used by the armed forces. A judge overseeing the case has imposed detention orders, placing 21 of the suspects in jail and assigning four to house arrest.
Implications of the Crackdown: A New Chapter in Medellín’s Battle Against Crime?
This major blow to “El Morro de Villa Flora” signifies a critical moment in Medellín’s ongoing battle against crime. The arrests send a clear message that authorities are determined to dismantle criminal organizations that destabilize communities. As the judicial process continues, the city waits to see the impact of this operation on reducing drug trafficking and extortion in its neighborhoods.
Conclusion: A New Phase in the Fight Against Organized Crime in Medellín
The recent operation against “El Morro de Villa Flora” is not just a crackdown on one of Medellín’s most notorious drug networks but also a crucial step in restoring safety and security in the city. With strategic law enforcement efforts and cooperation from the public, Medellín can hope for a brighter, crime-free future.
