Senator and presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay remains in a critical state following a dramatic assassination attempt during a political rally in western Bogotá on Saturday. The 39-year-old politician was shot three times—twice in the head and once in the left leg—while addressing supporters. Medical reports from Fundación Santa Fe confirm his condition is extremely grave, with limited response to emergency interventions and his prognosis remains reserved..
Authorities swiftly apprehended the suspected shooter, a 14-year-old boy, after a brief chase at the scene. The minor, who had previously participated in a government youth program, reportedly confessed to carrying out the attack for money to support his family. He will be charged with attempted homicide and illegal possession of a firearm The weapon used, a 9mm Glock pistol, was traced back to a legal purchase in Arizona, USA, in 2020, raising further questions about how it entered Colombia.
Investigators believe the teenager acted as a hired gun for a larger criminal network, with the order reportedly coming from a local drug dealer known as “el hombre de la olla” The case has reignited concerns over the recruitment of minors by armed groups and criminal organizations in Colombia, a problem that has seen a sharp rise in recent years.
Adding to the controversy, President Gustavo Petro revealed that Uribe Turbay’s security detail was reduced from seven to three guards on the day of the attack, prompting an official investigation into possible lapses in protection The Senate has since declared a state of permanent session in response to the incident.
Authorities continue to search for the masterminds behind the attack as Colombia grapples with renewed fears of political violence ahead of the upcoming elections.
