Colombia's UNP reduces security for former Petro officials

Colombia's National Protection Unit (UNP) has reduced or removed security details for dozens of former high-ranking officials from the administration of ex-President Gustavo Petro, sparking controversy and legal challenges. Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara confirmed that protections have been scaled back to a basic level, not eliminated entirely, arguing that "you cannot be a former minister and have a minister's security scheme" Source: El Tiempo. The UNP, under director Didier Blanco, began a review of active protection schemes in late August 2026, citing excessive spending and a need to reassign police resources to crime-fighting Source: El Tiempo.

Affected individuals

Those losing full protection include former ministers Armando Benedetti, Antonio Sanguino, Guillermo Jaramillo, Germán Ávila, Rosa Villavicencio, and others, as well as former intelligence director Jorge Lemus, ex-peace commissioner Otty Patiño, and several activists and influencers linked to the previous government Source: Infobae, El Colombiano. Notably, Mary Luz Herrán, Petro's ex-wife and a human rights defender, also had her security removed, despite claiming she still faces "extraordinary risk" and recently reported being followed Source: Infobae, El Colombiano.

Reactions and appeals

Affected individuals have 10 days to appeal the UNP's decision. Jorge Lemus, who handled sensitive intelligence and peace negotiations, stated he will appeal, arguing he still faces risks because "I handled delicate things and dealt with delicate characters" Source: El Colombiano. Mary Luz Herrán publicly blamed the government of President Abelardo de la Espriella, saying "I hold them responsible for my life" Source: Infobae. The UNP reports that between August 2022 and June 2026, there were 313 security incidents against protected persons, 276 of which were attacks Source: La Silla Vacía.