Colombia will open an
investigation into a former top general, the country's attorney
general's office said on Monday, following local media reports
alleging the army spied on judicial officials, journalists and
other military personnel.
It is the latest in a long series of spying scandals in the
Andean country, including accusations that military officials
spied on negotiators at talks with the Revolutionary Armed
Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebels, which eventually led to a 2016
peace accord. Other investigations have been unable to identify
those responsible for alleged spying.
"The Attorney General's Office today begins an investigation
in relation to these events. Given that a general of the
republic is mentioned, obviously it corresponds to office's
official in the Supreme Court," Interim Attorney General Fabio
Espitia told journalists.
The investigation into former General Nicacio de Jesus
Martinez, who stepped down last year, comes after local magazine
Semana published a Sunday cover story alleging spying on
politicians, magistrates, members of the military and
journalists.
In a statement, Martinez denied any responsibility for
illegal efforts to intercept communications and said he would
take legal action against his accusers.
"I am completely removed from these kind of illegal and
injurious actions", said Martinez, who became head of the
military in 2018.
The government has said the former general left his post in
December for personal reasons. His retirement came after he
denied putting pressure on high-ranking officers to sharply
increase the number of rebels and gang members killed or
captured.
Defense Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo ordered a review of
military intelligence work conducted during the last decade. He
told journalists the government rejects persecution, tracking or
illegal interceptions and will have zero tolerance with illegal
acts and corruption within the armed forces.
"If we discover irregularities, the government will demand
that those responsible are sanctioned in an exemplary manner,"
Trujillo said.