Valle del Cauca announced a new package of exceptional measures to confront the growing threat of illegal armed groups operating in the region.

Governor Dilian Francisca Toro officially presented the Committee for the Prevention and Anticipation of Terrorism (Copat), a body that will be created by decree and will exclusively integrate the high command of the Public Force, the Prosecutor’s Office, intelligence authorities and local leaders.

The most striking announcement was the establishment of much stricter drone control in Cali, Jamundí and the rest of the department. According to the president, in the coming weeks a decree will be issued that will establish the mandatory requirements to operate these devices, which have become tools used by various armed groups for reconnaissance, surveillance and attacks.

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“Not everyone can fly a drone. They can only do so if they meet the requirements. Anyone who takes off a drone without authorization will face sanctions, fines and even the possibility of the device being shot down,” Toro warned, stressing that drone control will be a critical point within Copat.

The committee also ordered the installation of fixed control points with the presence of the Army, Police and Navy in areas classified as high risk, especially in corridors where recent attacks have been recorded.

Toro explained that the objective of Copat is to anticipate violent actions, strengthen early reaction and mitigate any risk of terrorism in the department.

“We need to act before the events occur, especially in Cali and Jamundí”he emphasized.

In addition, the governor announced that she will seek immediate coordination with Cauca, in order to unify strategies between both territories, which share critical borders affected by criminal structures.

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