Montería, Colombia – Authorities in Colombia have captured Carlos Daniel Morales Mejía, known as ‘Carlos Muletas,’ a key figure allegedly linked to the criminal group ‘Los Costeños.’ The arrest, carried out in an urban area of Montería on March 1, 2026, represents a significant blow to the organization’s operations, particularly its ties to the group’s alleged leader, Jorge Eliécer Díaz Collazos, alias ‘Castor.’ This development in the ongoing effort to dismantle criminal networks in the Barranquilla metropolitan area highlights the complex challenges facing Colombian law enforcement.
‘Carlos Muletas’ is described by police as a close confidant of ‘Castor,’ and reportedly participated directly in confrontations with rival criminal actors. The capture is the result of investigations conducted by the Colombian National Police in coordination with the Attorney General’s Office. The focus on disrupting ‘Los Costeños’ reflects a broader strategy to improve security conditions for communities impacted by gang violence and extortion. Understanding the dynamics between ‘Castor’ and ‘Carlos Muletas’ is crucial to unraveling the structure of this criminal organization.
According to the Metropolitan Police of Barranquilla, Morales Mejía has over 15 years of criminal experience and is wanted for aggravated homicide, extortion, attempted homicide, and criminal conspiracy. Authorities believe he played a central role in multiple homicides stemming from disputes over criminal control in the Barranquilla area. The breadth of charges underscores the severity of his alleged involvement in organized crime. The investigation into his activities continues, with authorities analyzing two mobile phones seized during the raid.
A Long History of Criminal Activity
The Policía Metropolitana de Barranquilla detailed that ‘Carlos Muletas’ has been operating within criminal circles for more than a decade and a half. His close association with ‘Castor’ positioned him as a key enforcer and strategist for ‘Los Costeños.’ The group’s influence extends throughout the Barranquilla metropolitan area, where it allegedly engages in a range of illicit activities, including extortion targeting the commercial and industrial sectors. This systematic extortion has been a major source of concern for local businesses and residents.
Brigadier General Miguel Andrés Camelo Sánchez, commander of the Barranquilla Metropolitan Police, emphasized the collaborative nature of the operation. “This result demonstrates the articulated investigative and operational work of the institution to weaken criminal structures, capture their main dynamizers and guarantee security conditions for the community,” he stated. The coordinated effort between the police and the Attorney General’s Office signals a commitment to a unified approach to combating organized crime in the region.
The Connection to ‘Castor’
The relationship between ‘Carlos Muletas’ and ‘Castor’ is central to understanding the power structure within ‘Los Costeños.’ Authorities describe ‘Castor,’ whose full name is Jorge Eliécer Díaz Collazos, as the principal leader of the criminal organization. ‘Carlos Muletas’ allegedly served as one of his most trusted lieutenants, responsible for carrying out direct orders and confronting rival groups. This hierarchical structure is common in Colombian criminal organizations, where a clear chain of command is essential for maintaining control and coordinating activities.
The police investigation revealed that ‘Carlos Muletas’ was actively involved in criminal activities alongside ‘Castor,’ participating in confrontations against other illegal actors. This direct involvement suggests a high level of trust and responsibility within the organization. The capture of ‘Carlos Muletas’ is expected to disrupt ‘Los Costeños’ operations and potentially provide valuable intelligence regarding ‘Castor’s’ activities and whereabouts.
Impact on the Barranquilla Region
The arrest of ‘Carlos Muletas’ is expected to have a positive impact on the security situation in the Barranquilla metropolitan area. ‘Los Costeños’ has been accused of generating significant instability through extortion, violence, and intimidation. By removing a key leader from the organization, authorities hope to reduce these threats and improve the quality of life for residents and businesses. The ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal structures are aimed at creating a safer and more secure environment for the community.
The systematic extortion carried out by ‘Los Costeños’ has particularly affected the commercial and industrial sectors, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. The prioritization of ‘Carlos Muletas’ capture as a national objective underscores the seriousness of this issue. Authorities are committed to protecting businesses and ensuring that they can operate without being subjected to criminal demands.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The two mobile phones seized during the raid are currently being analyzed as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities hope to extract valuable information from these devices, including communication records, contacts, and evidence of criminal activities. This digital evidence could provide crucial leads in identifying other members of ‘Los Costeños’ and uncovering the full extent of their operations. The investigation will also focus on gathering further evidence to support the charges against ‘Carlos Muletas’ and ensure a successful prosecution.
The capture of ‘Carlos Muletas’ represents a significant step forward in the fight against organized crime in Colombia. However, authorities acknowledge that much work remains to be done. The investigation into ‘Los Costeños’ and its leadership will continue, with a focus on dismantling the organization’s infrastructure and bringing all those responsible for criminal activities to justice. A hearing date for Morales Mejía has not yet been announced, but updates will be provided by the Attorney General’s Office as the case progresses.
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