In 2025, the Fourth Brigade of Colombian National Army has reported the finding and destruction of seven specialized laboratories for the production of cocaine hydrochloride and coca base paste.
As part of the fight against drug trafficking, soldiers of the 4th Cavalry Medium Group of the Fourth Brigade, in coordination with the Anti-Narcotics Directorate of the National Police, found a cocaine hydrochloride production laboratory in the village El Salto, municipality of El Peñol, department of Antioquia.
This illegal construction, made of 4 rustic structures, contained 2572 kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride, 253 gallons of ethyl acetate, 60 gallons of hydrochloric acid, 100 kilograms of calcium chloride, 50 kilograms of sodium metabisulfite, 50 kilograms of caustic soda, an energy generator, 4 microwave ovens, 2 settling hoppers, a compressor and a press, among other elements used in the production of the narcotic.
This result represents a strategic blow against the so called Pacificadores de Samaná Substructure, belonging to the organized armed group, GAO, Clan del Golfo, with which their financial, logistical and criminal capacity is significantly hit. The military operation represents an estimated economic loss of 18,000 million pesos for the organization, reducing its scope for criminal operation in the region.
Source: Press – National Army
