7 killed in Nóvita military operation against Clan del Golfo in Colombia

A joint military and police operation in western Colombia has resulted in the deaths of seven members of the Clan del Golfo criminal organization, including a key regional commander, authorities confirmed.

The operation, designated "Operación Oppenhaimer," was carried out in the rural area of Guaraguao, located in the municipality of Nóvita in Chocó department, according to an official statement from the Colombian Military Forces. The action involved the National Army's Command Against Narcotrafficking and Transnational Threats, supported by the Air Force, Navy, and National Police.

Among those killed was Jason Arley García, known by the aliases "Álex" or "Canoso," identified as the third-in-command of the Clan del Golfo's "Edwin Guzmán Martínez" substructure . Authorities stated that García was responsible for coordinating drug trafficking, illegal mining, and armed proselytizing activities across several municipalities in Chocó. One suspected member of the organization was captured during the operation.

The military reported the seizure of significant war material, including 13 rifles, a handgun, 60 magazines, over 5,000 rounds of ammunition, grenades, a grenade launcher, communications equipment, and a drone . The operation was conducted via a strategic aerial strike followed by an air assault by the Transnational Threats Deployment Force.

President Abelardo De la Espriella confirmed the results and reiterated his administration's directive to maintain a full offensive against the organization.