Patrolman dies of injuries sustained from a criminal attack in Colombia

The Colombian National Police announced the death of Patrolman Janier Mena Mosquera, who succumbed to wounds suffered in a criminal attack on September 21 while on duty in Ocaña, Norte de Santander.

In an official statement posted on X, the Police expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the officer. “We deeply regret the death of our patrolman Janier Mena Mosquera, who lost his life as a result of the injuries suffered in the criminal attack perpetrated on September 21 while fulfilling his duty in Ocaña, Norte de Santander,” the institution said. “We stand in solidarity and respect with his family, loved ones, and colleagues in this moment of profound pain. His dedication, courage, and sacrifice in service to Colombians will remain forever in our memory.”

The Police added that they will eternally honor those who gave their lives for the country and will not rest until those responsible for the crime face justice.

According to local reports, Mena Mosquera, a native of Bojayá in the department of Chocó and approximately 33 years old, was shot in an attack involving two men on a motorcycle in the Galán (or Santa Clara) neighborhood of Ocaña. He sustained serious injuries, including a gunshot wound affecting the neck or spinal area, and was initially treated at a local hospital before being transferred to a high-complexity medical center in Bucaramanga, where he later died.

Authorities have linked the attack to the so-called “Plan Pistola,” a pattern of targeted assaults against members of the security forces in the region. Investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute those responsible.

The officer’s death comes amid heightened security concerns in Norte de Santander, a department near the Venezuelan border that has seen repeated attacks on police and military personnel in recent months.