For about 50 years, the South American country, Colombia, has used a surprising weapon to tackle crime.
The weapon was reportedly used against popular drug cartel leader, Pablo Escobar.
Colombia’s chief of police, General Henry Sanabria has revealed this special weapon to the public.
The Weapon
General Sanabria’s office is surrounded by crucifixes, effigies of the Virgin Mary, and other Catholic symbols.
He says the police have used exorcism and prayer to tackle crime and criminals.
According to the general, these religious practices have helped the police throughout the last 50 years of armed conflict.
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He cited the police operations in which Escobar (in 1993), FARC guerrilla leader Alfonso Cano (2011), and his military chief known as “Mono Jojoy” (2010) were killed.
“The existence of the devil is certain. I have seen him. I have felt him,” Sanabria said in an interview with Semana magazine.
Sanabria claims criminals used witchcraft. In one operation a police officer had reportedly been able to kill one of them by “praying while shooting.”
Social Media Debates
The general’s statements have sparked fierce debates on social media in Colombia.
The country is a largely secular country with Catholic traditions.
However, President Gustavo Petro did not express concern over the general’s statement.
“We know the beliefs of the general, but we try to make sure that these beliefs do not affect the rules, it is as simple as that,” he said.
“I think he has respected them, as far as we know.”
Similarly, General Sanabria has spoken against abortion, Halloween, and Women’s Day which sparked criticism.
