The former governor of Arauca, Julio Enrique Acosta, has found himself embroiled in controversy after his name was mentioned by the extradited criminal and leader of the Clan del Golfo, alias Otoniel, during a meeting with magistrates of the Special Justice for Peace – JEP and the Attorney General’s Office.
According to exclusive data revealed by SEMANA, Otoniel alleged that Acosta was connected to paramilitary groups in the region and had entered into a criminal agreement to expel guerrillas from the area. However, Acosta’s defense team, led by lawyer Andrés Garzón, has vehemently denied these accusations, stating that they are unfounded and simply a repetition of statements made by other criminals in different processes.
Garzón has called on the JEP to demand the truth from those who approach the jurisdiction with ulterior motives, seeking benefits rather than genuine reconciliation and reparations. He emphasized that previous investigations have shown no merit for the accusations against Acosta.
The defense team is now considering taking legal action against Otoniel, warning of the serious risk faced by officials and former officials who are unfairly implicated in statements made by the criminal in exchange for potential benefits from the justice system.
In a twist, Otoniel has expressed his intention to become a witness in macro case 08, which is investigating crimes committed by State agents in collaboration with self-defense groups, implicating senior Army officers. This revelation was made during a meeting at the ADX Florence prison in Colorado, United States, with officials and lawyers who had to adhere to a strict protocol.
The case highlights the complexities of seeking justice and reconciliation in a country plagued by violence and corruption, where individuals like Otoniel wield influence and manipulate the system for their own gain. As the investigation unfolds, all parties involved will be closely scrutinized to ensure that the truth prevails and justice is served.