Arrests in Colombia Target Family of Drug Lord Fito

Inda Mariela Penarrieta Tuarez and her daughter, Michelle Jamileth Macias Penarrieta, were arrested in northeastern Colombia over alleged money laundering connected to the criminal organization Los Choneros, led by Ecuadorian drug lord Adolfo Macias, also known as “Fito.” Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella announced the arrests on September 28, stating that the operation involved Colombian authorities, the FBI, and Ecuadorian security agencies. Both women are wanted in Ecuador for using shell companies to hide and transfer funds linked to Los Choneros.

President de la Espriella expressed his intention to send them to Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa for justice. Fito, who escaped from prison in Guayaquil in 2024, is currently facing seven charges in a New York court, including drug and arms trafficking, with potential sentences ranging from 20 years to life imprisonment.

Los Choneros was designated a terrorist organization by the United States last year, increasing international scrutiny on the gang.