Petro Government Faces Congress Over FARC Dissident Infiltration Scandal

Colombia’s Petro administration is facing scrutiny from lawmakers this week over allegations that armed groups have infiltrated state intelligence agencies. The controversy centers around a cache of documents seized from a suspected dissident FARC commander known as “Calarcá,” which reportedly reveal connections to high-ranking officials and potentially compromise national security. The unfolding scandal raises questions about the government’s ability to maintain control over sensitive information and counter illicit activities.

The allegations first surfaced following a report by Noticias Caracol’s investigative unit, which detailed the contents of computers seized from “Calarcá.” The documents and conversations reportedly demonstrate access to individuals holding key positions with access to national security information. The government has denied the accusations, with allies within the ruling coalition suggesting the evidence may have been fabricated.

The Defense Ministry responded to a series of 23 questions from the legislature regarding the scandal. The National Intelligence Directorate (DNI) and the National Protection Unit (UNP) were also asked to provide statements, but had not done so as of publication.

Defense Minister General (ret.) Pedro Sánchez stated that the ministry became aware of the alleged irregularities following the media report. He said that counterintelligence brigades were subsequently tasked with gathering information to verify the claims.

The ministry asserted that, based on data from the Joint Chiefs of Staff, there is currently no formal knowledge of a compromise of strategic or operational information with illegal groups. However, officials acknowledged the existence of potential risks, stating, “There are identified risks and threats, but these scenarios cannot be considered new or alien to the defense and national security work carried out by the Public Force, as they are part of the dynamics of the threat through which criminal structures constantly work to violate the systems of the defense sector.”

The ministry also addressed inquiries regarding warnings and alerts from intelligence services about alleged links between uniformed personnel and armed groups since August 7, 2022. Officials stated that this information is subject to legal restrictions but could be shared with members of the Senate’s Legal Commission overseeing intelligence and counterintelligence activities.

Lawmakers also questioned the role of General Juan Manuel Huertas, who is alleged to have ties to the FARC dissidents led by “Calarcá,” according to the Noticias Caracol report. Huertas has vehemently denied the allegations. He was previously removed from the Army and then reinstated by order of President Petro.

Regarding his dismissal and reinstatement, the Defense Ministry explained that Huertas was called for evaluation on December 24, 2021, as part of a standard retirement process. His reinstatement on March 4, 2025, was attributed to “service needs.”

Senators also inquired whether the United States had provided information to the Colombian government regarding the alleged links between General Huertas and armed groups. The response was that the Joint Intelligence and Counterintelligence Department of the Armed Forces had no record of receiving such information from U.S. sources.

The Petro administration is scheduled to provide further testimony to Congress on Tuesday. The Director of the National Protection Unit, Augusto Rodríguez, Defense Minister General (ret.) Pedro Sánchez, and National Intelligence Director Jorge Lemus are expected to attend. Prosecutor Luz Adriana Camargo and the Governor of Antioquia, Andrés Julián Rendón, have also been invited.