Bolivia approves new security norms to combat narcoterrorism

The Supreme Defense Council of the Plurinational State (Cosdep) has approved four new regulatory frameworks designed to strengthen national security and combat transnational organized crime and narcoterrorism.

The measures include a new Law of Security and Defense, reforms to the Cosdep to enhance strategic coordination, the establishment of a national intelligence system, and a provision allowing for the exceptional, temporary, and controlled participation of the Armed Forces in fighting organized crime. Defense Minister Ernesto Justiniano stated that the response must evolve because criminal organizations now possess advanced logistics, financing, technology, and the capacity for violence and intimidation.

The strategy aims to bolster intelligence, border control, and the monitoring of airspace and river routes, while protecting critical infrastructure. President of Cosdep Rodrigo Paz noted that the Armed Forces will work in coordination with the Bolivian Police to address threats such as drug trafficking and illegal mining used to fund criminal activities.