In a new development within the investigation into the alleged purchase of the Israeli software Pegasus during the government of Iván Duque (2018-2022), the attorney general, Luz Adriana Camargo, announced that the Prosecutor’s Office will call the former directors of the National Police to testify. that they exercised during that period. The diligence seeks to clarify details and obtain versions from former commanders about the acquisition and use of said software.
As expressed by prosecutor Camargo, the entity is in contact with the Israeli authorities and with representatives of NSO Group, the developer of Pegasus.to gather more information to advance the investigation. “The research team is the one that defines the activities. As general activities, we have to try to make contact with the Israeli authorities to obtain the information we require and for interviews with NSO directors,” Camargo detailed in statements to the media.
Among the officers who would be summoned would be General (r) Jorge Luis Vargas, who was director of the Police between 2020 and 2022 and more recently aspired to the Mayor of Bogotá.
Vargas is expected to be the first to appear before investigators to provide his version. Subsequently, generals (r) Jorge Hernando Nieto, who held the leadership in 2018, and Óscar Atehortua, who led the institution between 2018 and 2020, must also attend the summons.
This process is part of an effort to clarify the circumstances surrounding the possible purchase of Pegasus, a surveillance software that has been the subject of controversy in several countries due to its ability to access private communications.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Cybersecurity Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We’re diving into a significant development in the investigation regarding the alleged purchase of the Israeli spyware Pegasus during Iván Duque’s government. Could you give us your initial thoughts on the implications of the Colombian Attorney General, Luz Adriana Camargo’s decision to call in former directors of the National Police for testimony?
Cybersecurity Expert: Good morning! This is indeed a critical moment in the ongoing investigation. Calling in former police directors indicates a shift towards accountability in law enforcement practices, especially regarding surveillance technology. It shows that the Colombian government is taking these allegations seriously and is committed to uncovering the truth behind the acquisition and use of Pegasus.
Time.news Editor: That’s a vital point. The actions of law enforcement agencies are under scrutiny here. How do you view the role of foreign companies like NSO Group in this situation? What responsibilities do they hold when it comes to the usage of their technology by foreign governments?
Cybersecurity Expert: This is an essential aspect of the discussion. Companies like NSO Group are in a unique position; they provide powerful tools that can be used for various purposes, including national security. However, they also have a duty to ensure their technology isn’t misused for human rights abuses or unlawful surveillance. When they engage with foreign governments, they should have clear protocols and ethical guidelines to prevent misuse.
Time.news Editor: It seems like the Attorney General is reaching out to Israeli authorities and NSO Group for collaboration. How crucial is this international aspect to the investigation, and what challenges might it present?
Cybersecurity Expert: The international dimension is very important. Engaging with Israeli authorities and NSO Group can yield vital information about the software’s intended use and compliance with regulations. However, there are challenges too. There might be legal complexities regarding cooperation between nations, especially if there are differing views on privacy and surveillance ethics. It may also take time to navigate international legal frameworks and get the necessary cooperation.
Time.news Editor: Given the nature of Pegasus, which has been associated with serious human rights concerns globally, how do you think this situation in Colombia will impact the discussions around surveillance technology and privacy?
Cybersecurity Expert: This could have a substantial impact. If it turns out that the technology was misused, it could lead to stricter regulations not only in Colombia but potentially influence other countries considering similar technologies. Additionally, it can fuel a larger conversation about the need for transparency and accountability in the deployment of surveillance tools, balancing national security interests with individual rights.
Time.news Editor: as this investigation unfolds, what do you see as the next steps for the Prosecutor’s Office? What should be the focus?
Cybersecurity Expert: The next steps should include thorough interviews with the former police directors to gather firsthand accounts and understanding of the decision-making processes regarding Pegasus. Furthermore, a comprehensive review of documented communication between the Colombian government and NSO Group is essential. Lastly, engaging with civil society organizations to assess the impact of such surveillance on citizens’ rights would provide a rounded perspective.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights! This investigation is crucial, and we’ll certainly be following its developments closely. Your expertise sheds light on the complexities involved which is essential for our readers to understand.
Cybersecurity Expert: Thank you! It’s important to keep the public informed about these issues, as they directly affect privacy and civil liberties. I’m looking forward to seeing how this unfolds.