The Capture of Venezuelan Hitman Alberto Carlos Mejía Hernández: A Cross-Border Effort
On August 16, Colombian authorities announced the successful capture of Alberto Carlos Mejía Hernández, one of the most wanted members of the Aragua Train, an organized crime group originating in Venezuela. The arrest took place in Barrancabermeja, Santander, a strategic city in Colombia known for its oil production and transportation routes.
This multi-faceted operation was a result of coordinated efforts between the National Police of Colombia, the National Central Office of Interpol, and their counterparts in Chile, as a part of the ongoing *El Paccto* program aimed at combating transnational crime.
The arrest was made possible by an Interpol red notice, which facilitated the identification of Mejía Hernández, who was wanted for qualified homicide in Chile. Major General Carlos Fernando Triana, director of the National Police, expressed gratitude towards the directors of the Investigative Police (PDI) of Chile and the Carabineros de Chile for their collaborative efforts in the operation.
Alberto Carlos Mejía Hernández had been on the run since July, having been mistakenly released from detention by an error on July 10, 2023. The eighth Court of Guarantee of Santiago had only ordered preventive detention for Mejía and others accused of the murder of José Felipe Reyes Ossa , infamously known as “The King of Meiggs,” which took place on June 19 in Ñuñoa , Santiago.
Currently, the Chilean Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding Mejía’s release, including potential manipulations of judicial systems that could have facilitated his escape.
The successful arrest involved extensive cooperation between various law enforcement agencies, including both Chilean and Colombian entities, and measures were taken to ensure Mejía’s location was secure. In an effort to evade capture, he altered his appearance, dyeing his hair blonde. However, authorities were able to identify him through a distinctive tattoo found on his arm, which had been recorded prior to his escape.
This thorough search process initially suspected that Mejía may have sought refuge in Argentina or Peru, but ultimately, investigators discovered he was hiding in Colombia all along. His capture was the result of meticulous detective work, emphasizing both transnational collaboration and the intelligence sharing between police departments.
The murder for which Mejía is charged occurred in June 2023, when the “King of Meiggs” was killed by Venezuelan hitmen allegedly hired by an associate, Wilson Verdugo . During the investigation, another name came to light, that of Jorge Tom , a Colombian businessman with alleged ties to the crime. However, Iguana Producciones , the company Tom founded, categorically denied any involvement with the incident.
As the investigation continues, Mejía Hernández will face extradition proceedings to Chile, where he is required to answer for his role in the qualified homicide of Reyes Ossa. Major General Triana stated that the capture not only dismantles a crucial part of the Aragua Train but also sends a strong message against organized crime in both countries.
In summary, the arrest of Alberto Carlos Mejía Hernández is a testament to the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies across borders. It highlights how an organized response to transnational crime can be effective, combining resources and intelligence to secure justice and safety for the people of Colombia and Chile alike.