In a striking claim, Colombian President Gustavo Petro accused General Edwin Urrego, the commander of the police in Cali, of attempting to sabotage his meeting with then-President Donald Trump on February 3. This allegation emerged during a ministerial council meeting in Montería, where Petro was addressing emergency response to flooding in the region. He referenced an anonymous tip that suggested a plot to compromise the safety of the meeting by illicit means. Petro expressed his intention to have Urrego evaluated and signaled that he had already dismissed another general involved in this purported conspiracy.

The accusations shed light on ongoing tensions within Colombia's police and government hierarchy, particularly concerning issues of security and trust. Petro's remarks highlight the potential for instability in the relations between law enforcement and the presidency, especially as he navigates his administration's response to significant national challenges such as public safety and governance. The president's decision to publicly name Urrego underscores the seriousness with which he takes these accusations and illustrates the politically charged atmosphere in Colombia.

The implications of these accusations could reverberate through political and policing institutions in Colombia. If substantiated, it could lead to a broader investigation into police conduct and governance issues, potentially affecting trust in law enforcement among the Colombian populace. As Petro continues to confront both natural disasters like flooding and political adversities, these charges further complicate his administration's ability to maintain stability and effectiveness.