Colombia defends aerial spraying pilot plan for illicit crops

The Colombian government is defending a pilot plan for aerial spraying of illicit crops using the herbicide glufosinate ammonium 200 SL. The initiative, which targets up to 1,000 hectares primarily in Putumayo, was recently suspended by a constitutional judge in Puerto Asís following a legal challenge by the Fundación Tiempo de Cambios para la Transformación Social regarding potential impacts on health, water, and the environment.

Justice Minister Iván Cancino argued that aerial spraying is a necessary tool to weaken criminal structures that fund extortion, forced displacement, and the recruitment of minors. The administration maintains that illicit crops contribute to deforestation, illegal agricultural expansion, and water contamination. A judicial ruling on whether to lift the suspension or protect the rights invoked in the legal challenge is expected within ten business days.