During his time in prison, Fábio Ochoa Vásquez worked with clean energy generation; security experts and family members of drug trafficking victims expressed concern about the return
Fábio Ochoa Vásquez, one of the founders of the notorious Medellín Cartel, was recently deported from the United States after serving more than two decades in prison. Known for his association with , Ochoa landed at El Dorado International Airport, in Bogotá, without facing legal proceedings in his home country. During his time in prison, he dedicated himself to developing devices for generating , an attempt at rehabilitation that, however, does not dispel concerns about his return.
Ochoa’s deportation generated mixed reactions in Colombia. Public security experts have expressed concerns about the possibility of him resuming illicit activities, given his history of involvement in drug trafficking. Colombia remains the world’s largest drug exporter, with 97% of the drugs entering the United States originating from the South American country. A United Nations report released in October revealed a 53% increase in cocaine production in Colombia in 2023, reaching more than 2,000 tons, intensifying fears about Ochoa’s influence.
Ochoa’s presence in the country has also sparked outrage among family members of drug trafficking victims, who fear that his influence could be harmful to Colombian society. However, there are political sectors that argue that he should have the opportunity to reintegrate into society, as long as he is under adequate supervision.
*With information from Eliseu Caetano
*Report produced with the help of AI
