Retired Army Major Juan Carlos Rodriguez, also known as “Zeus,” has reportedly escaped from prison during a mass jailbreak in Colombia. The escape occurred on April 21, with Rodriguez fleeing the facility along with 21 other detainees. The inmates took advantage of a tropical storm to mask their escape, with Rodriguez covering his face with a towel as he hurried out of the cell and into the streets. At least 10 officers were present during the escape, and the police have initiated a wide-scale operation to recapture the fugitives, with reports suggesting that as many as 50 inmates could be at large.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has condemned Rodriguez as a dangerous criminal who must be dismantled as soon as possible. The police have offered a reward of 50 million Colombian pesos for the capture of Rodriguez. Some of the prisoners who escaped have already returned after sustaining injuries during the prison break. Three police officers have been arrested for their role in the escape, though details on how they may have assisted the prisoners remain scarce. Rodriguez was arrested and convicted for arms trafficking and for serving in the paramilitary for the Norte del Valle cartel, a major ally of drug dealer Diego Montoya.
Rodriguez reportedly planned the entire escape and attempted to bribe police officers by posing as a member of the National Protection Unit and offering a large sum of money. Police seized a haul of weapons from Rodriguez, including pistols, grenades, mortars, and explosives. Rodriguez is also suspected of carrying out extrajudicial killings on behalf of his criminal associates, including the alleged murder of a journalist. Despite his previous convictions, Rodriguez was released on parole in 2021 after agreeing to cooperate with authorities and provide information on ties between the military, paramilitary groups, and drug traffickers in Colombia.
The escape of Rodriguez and the other detainees has sparked a widespread investigation into the prison break and police corruption. Colombian authorities have closed all exit routes from the city of Cucuta and are conducting a manhunt to recapture the fugitives. The escape has raised concerns about the safety of the community and the ability of law enforcement to contain dangerous criminals. The police have acknowledged errors in their handling of the situation and have vowed to bring all those responsible for the escape to justice.
The escape of Rodriguez, a known criminal with ties to paramilitary groups and drug traffickers, highlights the challenges faced by Colombian authorities in combating organized crime. The incident has also shed light on the prevalence of corruption within law enforcement and the need for greater oversight and accountability. As the manhunt for Rodriguez and the other fugitives continues, the authorities are under pressure to ensure the safety and security of the public while bringing those responsible for the escape to justice. The situation remains tense as the escaped detainees remain at large, posing a threat to the safety and stability of the region.
