Iván Mordisco, whose real name is Iván Jacobo Idrobo Arredondo, is a prominent figure in contemporary Colombian organized crime, primarily known as a leader within the dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Unlike many former FARC members who demobilized following the 2016 peace agreement with the Colombian government, Mordisco refused to disarm and continued his involvement in illegal armed activities.
Mordisco’s path to leadership within the FARC dissidents wasn’t immediate. He joined the FARC at a young age, rising through the ranks and gaining experience in combat and territorial control. The peace agreement presented a critical juncture. While many saw it as an opportunity for reintegration into civilian life, Mordisco viewed it as a betrayal of the FARC’s original ideals and an abandonment of the territories they had historically controlled. This conviction fueled his decision to remain armed and actively recruit other disillusioned ex-combatants.
He quickly became a leading figure in the “Estado Mayor Central” (EMC), one of the largest and most active FARC dissident groups. His influence extends across several regions of Colombia, particularly in areas with significant coca cultivation. He is believed to be heavily involved in drug trafficking, illegal mining, and extortion – the primary sources of funding for the EMC. Under his leadership, the EMC has engaged in numerous attacks against Colombian security forces, civilian populations, and infrastructure, undermining the peace process and contributing to the ongoing instability in rural areas.
Mordisco’s activities have made him a high-value target for the Colombian government. The authorities have launched numerous military operations aimed at capturing or neutralizing him and dismantling his network. However, his deep knowledge of the terrain, combined with the support of local communities who depend on the illicit economy he controls, has allowed him to evade capture for years.
His rhetoric often focuses on criticizing the Colombian government for failing to fulfill the promises made in the peace agreement, particularly regarding land reform and the provision of economic opportunities for former combatants. He uses this perceived betrayal to justify his continued armed struggle, portraying himself as a defender of the rural poor and the true legacy of the FARC. This narrative, however, is often seen as a smokescreen to mask his involvement in lucrative criminal activities and his ambition to maintain control over strategic territories.
Iván Mordisco represents a significant challenge to the ongoing peace efforts in Colombia. His refusal to disarm and his continued involvement in criminal activities pose a major obstacle to achieving lasting peace and stability in the country. His future actions will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the security landscape of Colombia and the prospects for a comprehensive resolution to the long-standing conflict.