SUMMARY
In 2013, in Barranquilla, the criminal group known as Los Costenos emerged as a splinter group from Los Rastrojos, led by Jorge Eliécer Díaz, alias 'El Castor'. Los Rastrojos had arrived in Barranquilla after the demobilization of the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia AUC to compete for control of illegal activities with other armed groups. After their formation, Los Costenos quickly became a dominant force in local organized crime. Their strength was particularly solidified in 2016 when they formed a temporary alliance with the Gaitanista Army of Colombia EGC, which allowed them to consolidate control over Barranquilla and surrounding areas.
However, in 2019, the capture of both Jorge Eliécer Díaz and Digno Palomino in Venezuela triggered internal conflicts within Los Costenos. These tensions culminated in 2022 with the creation of a rival faction, Los Pepes, led by Digno Palomino, who had previously been a close associate of Díaz. The rivalry between Los Costenos – Los Pepes quickly intensified, leading to open conflict for control of territory and illegal revenues.
The conflict between Los Costenos – Los Pepes was primarily characterized by the use of hitmen, including massacres and targeted assassinations. This type of violence has left a trail of deaths among both the organization members and the civilian population caught in the crossfire. The attacks are often brutal and calculated, aimed at eliminating key members of the rival group and instilling terror in the communities under their control. In 2023, the violence escalated, leading to multiple massacres in a short period.
The conflict has been predominantly local, concentrating in Barranquilla and its surrounding municipalities in the Atlántico department, such as Soledad and Malambo. These areas have become strategic points due to their importance for drug trafficking and other illegal activities.
The non-state conflict between Los Costenos – Los Pepes was included in the UCDP data for the first time in 2023. In December of that year, clashes in the municipality of Malambo caused the dyad to cross the threshold of 25 battle-related deaths.
