Former DAS Director Faces 28-Year Sentence in Garzón’s Murder

In a significant development within Colombian justice, the former director of intelligence at the Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad (DAS), José Miguel Narváez Martínez, has been handed a new sentence. The conviction comes as he faces allegations tied to his role as an intellectual author in the murder of the beloved humorist Jaime Garzón.

The legal proceedings reached a climax when a specialized penal judge in Medellín ruled against Narváez, sentencing him to 28 years behind bars. This judgment is based on his involvement in orchestrating the kidnapping of former Senator Piedad Córdoba during the tumultuous late 1990s.

A Plot Rooted in Political Turmoil

The investigation unveiled disturbing details about a meeting between Narváez and Carlos Castaño Gil, an ex-paramilitary leader. During this clandestine encounter, it was argued that Córdoba had been allegedly collaborating with the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), which supposedly motivated her abduction.

Cordoba’s kidnapping occurred as she attended a medical appointment in Medellín’s El Poblado neighborhood. Held captive until June 4th, 1999, her release was achieved through the combined efforts of political and humanitarian mediators. The plot thickened when it emerged that Narváez allegedly proposed to Castaño Gil that Córdoba be assassinated—a notion never realized.

A Legacy of Advocacy

Throughout her life, Piedad Córdoba remained a figurehead in Colombian politics, known for her relentless work as a senator and advocate for the release of hostages. Her death in January 2024 was attributed to natural causes, but her legacy endures as a testament to resilience and diplomacy.

Legal Recourse and Human Rights

The verdict against Narváez is just the beginning, as he has the right to appeal this decision. The case, overseen by a specialized human rights prosecutor under the 2000 Law 600, signifies Colombia’s commitment to confronting past abuses and striving for justice.

This ruling not only marks another chapter in the pursuit of accountability but also serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between politics, security agencies, and individual lives. As Narváez faces his sentence, the nation reflects on the implications for human rights and justice.

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