Colombian Army Fifth Division undergoes leadership change

General Carlos Ernesto Marmolejo Cumbe has officially handed over command of the Colombian Army's Fifth Division to General Juan Odúber Rendón Pérez. The transition ceremony was led by the Army Commander, General José Bertulfo Soto Sánchez.

The Fifth Division is responsible for security across Boyacá, Cundinamarca, Bogotá, Tolima, Huila, Quindío, Caldas, and Risaralda. During Marmolejo's tenure from January 1 to August 29, 2026, the unit reported significant operational results, including 1,789 arrests, the recovery of 55 minors, and the seizure of 273 weapons and 15,209 rounds of ammunition.

Additional achievements noted during his command include the neutralization of 547 explosive devices and 71 landmines, the intervention of 431,894 illicit crop plants, and the dismantling of two criminal commissions. Marmolejo will move on to serve as the Deputy Chief of the General Staff.