One of Colombia's most dangerous criminals, a retired Army Major known as 'Zeus,' has reportedly escaped from prison during a mass jailbreak, raising concerns about potential corruption within the system. The daring escape took place on April 21, with Zeus and 21 other detainees fleeing the facility in Cúcuta.
The inmates took advantage of a tropical storm to mask their escape, with Zeus covering his face with a towel as he made his way out of the cell. The escape was facilitated when an inmate faked an illness to lure guards into his cell, allowing the group to overpower them.
Following the escape, Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned Zeus as a criminal association that must be dismantled. A reward of 50 million Colombian pesos has been offered for Zeus's capture, with police launching a wide-scale operation to recapture the fugitives.
Reports suggest that up to 50 inmates could now be at large, with some sustaining injuries during the prison break. Three police officers have been arrested for their alleged role in assisting the prisoners, though details remain limited.
Zeus, who was convicted for arms trafficking and serving in the paramilitary for the Norte del Valle cartel, has a history of criminal activities. He has been linked to extrajudicial killings and alleged ties to drug traffickers, including offering bribes to officers for his release.
His most recent arrest in 2021 ended with parole after he agreed to cooperate with authorities, providing information on military support for rival cartel gangs. Zeus's escape has sparked a manhunt, with authorities working to capture the fugitives and address the systemic issues that allowed the jailbreak to occur.
