Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos announced Thursday that the government will offer a reward up to $133,000 for any information that would lead to the capture of gang leader Marcos Figueroa, alias “Marquitos.”
Marquitos is one of the most wanted criminals on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, accused of committing various crimes, including murder. He is a mafia and criminal gang leader with alleged ties to recently indicted governor “Kiko” Gomez.
The President said that Marquitos and his gang are probably responsible for recent terrorist attacks on mines and energy towers in the state of La Guajira, and that “they will be pursued and fought with all of our might.”
Marquitos has gained notoriety recently. Outspoken investigative journalist Claudia Lopez told Colombia Reports that Figueroa had ordered her assassination, which prompted her to flee the country. She also said that Marquitos had close ties to the now ex-governor of La Guajira, “Kiko” Gomez. Gomez was recently arrested due to charges of murder and collusion with gangs such as the one run by Marquitos.
MORE: Investigative journalist reveals all on death threats and fleeing Colombia
MORE: North Colombia governor arrested, accused of homicide and paramilitary ties
