Attack on Colombian MP Triana
Colombian conservative lawmaker Julio Cesar Triana escaped unharmed following an attack on Wednesday night. His vehicle was targeted as he left La Plata in Huila.
Triana and his team managed to exit the situation without injuries, although reports indicated that his car sustained bullet holes from both a rifle and a pistol.
A member of the conservative Radical Change (CR) party, Triana is part of the Colombian delegation. Following the attack, he called for immediate assistance from the national police and the Army, expressing gratitude that he and his team were uninjured.
“We’ve just been attacked while driving. There was shooting, and we’re with the police right now,” Triana shared in a video. He noted the lack of support from law enforcement as they approached a town named Paycol, mentioning they had been targeted multiple times and needed security assistance.
Shortly after Triana posted his video, President Gustavo Petro announced that a helicopter was dispatched to evacuate him, and troops were engaged with the attackers. The president stated that the area is under the control of a unit led by Nester Gregorio “Ivan Mordisco” Vera Fernandez, a known figure associated with the FARC. Triana was eventually moved from Paycol to Neiva, the capital of Huila.
Later that night, Triana expressed his gratitude on social media, thanking God and the Virgin Mary for their protection during this ordeal. He acknowledged the support from the security forces who ensured their safety.
“We are committed to protecting democracy, but we urge the government to guarantee the safety of all Colombians,” he added.
The Radical Change party voiced their concern, stating that Triana had previously raised alarms about needing security due to threats. They placed responsibility for his safety on President Petro and expressed solidarity with Triana and his family during this troubling time.
“We are thankful our lawmakers are safe, but his vehicle was completely destroyed,” their statement indicated. They condemned the violence facing their members and criticized the government for its lack of action amidst ongoing threats.
This attack on Rep. Triana comes at a chaotic time in the nation, following the recent death of fellow conservative Senator Miguel Uribe, who became a victim of Colombia’s persistent violence. Uribe had succumbed after a lengthy battle following an attack at a campaign event in June. President Petro did not attend Uribe’s funeral.
In a social media post, a former colleague emphasized the severity of the situation: “Miguel was murdered. Just before his funeral, three soldiers were killed as well.” He detailed the threats reported by security officials and reiterated the urgent need for security within Colombia.
