Fredy Castillo Carrillo, leader of Los Pachenca, remains at large

Fredy Castillo Carrillo, known as ‘Pinocho’, the leader of the criminal group Los Pachenca (also known as Autodefensas Conquistadoras de la Sierra Nevada), is currently a fugitive following security operations in Santa Marta. While authorities continue their search, Castillo Carrillo and his brother, Carmen Evelio Castillo Carrillo, have filed a legal injunction (tutela) seeking protection of rights including due process, personal liberty, and access to justice. The Council of State has referred the case to a competent local court for review.

Castillo Carrillo’s legal defense, led by attorney Álex Fernández Harding, has indicated a willingness to surrender provided that specific guidelines regarding a ‘Law of Submission’ for criminal organizations are established. This is particularly relevant as Castillo Carrillo is wanted in Austin, Texas, and his brother, Evelio Castillo Carrillo, also faces indictments in the United States. The criminal group maintains significant influence in the Magdalena and La Guajira regions of Colombia.