Montería authorities dismantle extortion network operating from Las Mercedes prison

Authorities in Montería, Colombia, have dismantled an extortion network operating from within the Las Mercedes prison. Following citizen complaints and intelligence work by police and military forces, officials intervened in pavilion number 5, covering three yards and 30 cells.

During the operation, investigators seized 14 mobile phones, 8 SIM cards, and other digital equipment used to coordinate crimes. The criminal group reportedly profiled victims via social media and digital platforms before contacting them to demand money through intimidation and threats. Authorities also confiscated knives and narcotics during the raid, highlighting ongoing security vulnerabilities in regional correctional facilities.