The tragic death of Alejandro Carranza, a Colombian fisherman, has raised serious questions about U.S. military actions against drug traffickers in the Caribbean. Carranza, 40, left his home in Santa Marta, Colombia, to fish in open waters, only to become one of at least 32 people allegedly killed in U.S. military strikes targeting drug smuggling operations.
A Controversial U.S. Military Action
Last month, the U.S. conducted military operations claiming to target boats carrying narcotics. The Trump administration stated these actions were necessary due to a “non-international armed conflict” with drug cartels, arguing that their drug trafficking contributes to the deaths of thousands of Americans annually. Carranza’s family challenges these claims, asserting that he was merely a fisherman.
Family’s Grief and Outcry
- Katerine Hernandez, Carranza’s wife, emphasized his innocence. She referred to him as a “good man” devoted to his work.
- “The fishermen have the right to live. Why didn’t they just detain them?” she asked, expressing outrage over her husband’s death.
- Colombian President Gustavo Petro has also defended Carranza, claiming he had no ties to drug trafficking and was at sea due to a mechanical failure.
Conflicting Reports and Diplomatic Tensions
Despite the defense from the Colombian government, local media reported that Carranza had a prior criminal record related to weapon theft. Colombian prosecutors have neither confirmed nor denied these allegations. This situation has contributed to a diplomatic spat between Colombia and the U.S., traditionally close allies.
Reactions from Leaders
- President Petro labeled the U.S. strikes as an “assassination” and a violation of Colombian sovereignty.
- In response, President Trump referred to Petro as an “illegal drug leader” and threatened to cut U.S. aid to Colombia.
- The U.S. has also decertified Colombia as a partner in the fight against drugs.
The Aftermath of the Strikes
Reports indicate that the U.S. military operations resulted in the deaths of over 30 individuals. Friends and family of Carranza insist he was engaged in fishing activities, targeting species like sierra, tuna, and snapper.
Survivors of the Attack
Currently, two survivors of these strikes—a Colombian and an Ecuadoran—are being addressed by authorities. The Colombian survivor is reportedly facing charges of drug trafficking, while the Ecuadoran was released after confirming he had no outstanding charges.
This incident highlights the complexities of U.S. military interventions and their impact on innocent lives, underscoring the urgent need for reassessment of strategies in combatting drug trafficking in the region.
