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Leonel Enrique Llanos Paternina identified as key figure in organized crime structure that killed rice farmer Gustavo Andrés Aponte Fonnegra

The Fiscal General of the Nation has identified Leonel Enrique Llanos Paternina as a primary figure in the organized crime structure responsible for the murder of rice farmer Gustavo Andrés Aponte Fonnegra and his bodyguard. Captured in Villavicencio, Llanos Paternina was involved in surveillance, logistical coordination, and transportation for the hit. The investigation revealed that the hitmen belonged to a group called 'Los Gladiadores,' which operated from Bogotá with ties to the Caribbean coast. Evidence suggests the murder was a result of a mistaken identity. While the hitmen followed Gustavo Andrés Aponte Fonnegra for several weeks, they were actually targeting Olimpo Antonio Oliver Peñaranda, a mining businessman. The attack occurred on February 11, 2026, in the La Cabrera sector of Bogotá. The Fiscal General of the Nation has imputed crimes of aggravated homicide and drug trafficking to Llanos Paternina. The investigation continues to identify the remaining members of the structure and the person who ordered the hit.

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