Police officer killed while responding to reported theft in Sincelejo, Colombia

A Colombian National Police patrolman was shot and killed early Wednesday morning while responding to a reported theft at a commercial establishment in the city of Sincelejo.

Patrolman Ader Durán Solórzano Martínez (also reported as Ader Dubán Solórzano Martínez), 29, a native of Betulia, Sucre, and a member of the Las Delicias Police Station with about 10 years of service, died from his injuries after being transported to Clínica Santa María.

According to official accounts and local reports, officers arrived around 2:30 a.m. at the intersection of the La María neighborhood and Avenida Luis Carlos Galán to check on a suspected theft. They were fired upon, and Solórzano Martínez was struck. Police said the person responsible was captured at the scene by fellow officers, who recovered a .32-caliber revolver and one projectile. The suspect was turned over to judicial authorities.

In a statement posted on its official X account, the Colombian National Police paid tribute to the officer: “In the performance of his duty and responding to a case of theft at a commercial establishment in Sincelejo, patrolman Ader Durán Solórzano Martínez… was murdered. His dedication, bravery and commitment to the safety of citizens will remain forever in the memory of the National Police.” The force expressed solidarity with his family, colleagues and loved ones and confirmed the capture of the alleged perpetrator.

Local media outlets in the region corroborated the basic circumstances of the incident and the detention. Further details on the investigation were not immediately available.