‘It’s total terror’: Colombian cartel retaliates over kingpin’s arrest

Otoniel's Gulf Clan militiamen shut down northern regions, blocking roads and holding residents hostage in their houses

Jorge, a community activist from Colombia's conflict-ridden Choco province, was already traveling to the city of Medellin when he heard news that made him turn back towards home.

Paramilitary militiamen in balaclavas and military fatigues had thrown up a string of roadblocks and declared an armed strike", torching vehicles, forcing businesses to close, and stopping all traffic.