Óscar Camargo Ríos faces scrutiny over alleged aesthetic procedures in prison

Óscar Camargo Ríos, a high-profile micro-trafficking leader known as alias ‘Pichi’, is at the center of a controversy regarding alleged aesthetic medical procedures performed while incarcerated at the La Dorada prison in Caldas, Colombia.

Documents from May and June 2026 reveal that prison authorities authorized the entry of medical personnel and various supplies, including 14 syringes of hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin (Botox), and other surgical implements. Records indicate that the prison director, Major Edgar Iván Pérez, approved a dermatological assessment in May, followed by the entry of a surgeon and three nursing assistants in June to provide “comprehensive care.”

The prison administration stated that these authorizations were granted following a formal petition submitted by the inmate's lawyer. The controversy has been fueled by photographic comparisons showing visible changes in Camargo Ríos's appearance, including increased facial volume and changes in hair and beard style. While these changes have raised concerns about potential attempts to evade recognition, the documents do not conclusively prove the procedures were for cosmetic purposes or intended to facilitate an escape.