The government of Colombia confirmed a shift in its approach to the Gulf Clan, announcing that a previously declared ceasefire with the criminal organization has been canceled. The update came through an official social media post from the president, who stated that the armed forces and police have been directed to resume all military operations against the Gulf Clan. The message stressed that authorities will not permit the group to sow fear among communities or derail public safety.
According to officials, the decision follows a violent attack on a military unit within the Antioquia region. While authorities attribute responsibility to the Gulf Clan, no formal statement has been issued by the group itself. The incident has prompted a renewed emphasis on security measures in affected departments, with authorities prioritizing intelligence gathering, maneuverability on the ground, and collaboration with local communities to prevent further violence.
Earlier in the year, at the end of December, the government indicated that a broader ceasefire framework had been reached with five groups, including the Gulf Clan. Representatives associated with the Gulf Clan reportedly engaged legal counsel and signaled potential openness to negotiations aimed at winding down their activities. The president commented that while negotiations with drug cartels at large would not be pursued, remaining channels with justice and law enforcement would continue to be explored as appropriate.
In April, Colombian authorities reported the capture of a high-profile Gulf Clan leader, described by security officials as one of the most wanted figures in the country. The detainee, who has been identified in official briefings by a nickname linked to a long-standing criminal notoriety, is accused of drug trafficking, extortion, and conspiracy to commit crimes. The arrest is described by the defense ministry as a significant development in the ongoing effort to dismantle the organization and protect civilian populations across multiple departments.