Colombia's Petro faces DEA probe over drug trafficking and bribery claims

Colombian President Gustavo Petro is now a key figure in a US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation. The agency has labelled him a 'priority target' over suspected links to drug trafficking and bribery. His family members, including a son and brother, also face serious allegations in the widening probe.

The DEA's focus on Petro stems from claims that his representatives sought bribes to prevent extraditions to the US. Federal prosecutors in New York are examining whether these payments were made in exchange for shielding traffickers from justice. Among the accused is Petro's brother, Juan Fernando, who allegedly negotiated with imprisoned drug lords to halt their extradition.

Petro's son, Nicolás, was previously charged with soliciting illegal campaign funds from a convicted trafficker. Colombian authorities have been investigating other family members for potential criminal involvement. The DEA is also probing Petro's suspected role in smuggling cocaine and fentanyl through Colombian ports, with possible ties to Mexico's Sinaloa cartel.

Drug money has long shaped Colombian politics, with cartels historically funding campaigns and swaying elections. Petro has repeatedly denied any involvement in trafficking, instead advocating for social programmes to support coca farmers.

The investigation into Petro and his associates continues on both sides of the Atlantic. US and Colombian authorities are examining financial records, communications, and potential witness testimony. Any findings could have significant legal and political consequences for Petro's administration.