Colombian bombing raid against Gulf Clan kills 8: president

BOGOTA, Nov. 11 (Xinhua) -- The top leader of a substructure of the Colombian criminal ring Clan del Golfo (Gulf Clan) and seven others were killed in a military bombing targeting the group in northwest Colombia, President Abelardo de la Espriella said Wednesday.

"The preliminary result: eight neutralized, including Haminton Mosquera, alias 'Negro Perea,' the primary leader of this structure, who had a criminal history spanning more than 20 years," De la Espriella wrote on X.

According to the president, Mosquera was one of the country's top 10 most-wanted leaders, and was accused of ordering homicides, forced displacements, and attacks against security forces.

During the operation, security forces seized rifles, pistols, anti-personnel mines, and communication equipment, De la Espriella said.

"I warn the leaders of these organizations: you will find no place to hide or peace as long as you continue to murder, extort, and terrorize Colombians," the president said.