Colombian President Approves Independent Probe of ELN's Drug Trade Links

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accepted a proposal from the ELN to allow an independent commission to investigate the rebel group's alleged drug trade links. Petro supports the commission being scientific and independent, with findings submitted to the UN. Previous peace talks were halted over these allegations.

In a significant development in Colombia's ongoing conflict with the National Liberation Army (ELN), President Gustavo Petro announced on Sunday his acceptance of a proposal for an independent investigation into the rebel group's alleged links to the drug trade.

The offer was extended through a video message by Antonio Garcia, the ELN's leader, on January 20. Garcia contended that while the ELN imposes a tax on cocaine traders, it does not oversee trafficking routes or cocaine production. He challenged the government to substantiate these claims through an independent body.

President Petro, in a statement on X, emphasized the need for the commission to be 'scientific and independent of governments' and suggested that its findings should be presented to the United Nations. This move could potentially revive stalled peace talks, which previously collapsed over the allegations and the ELN's military actions in Catatumbo.

(With inputs from agencies.)