US EditionAn alleged smuggler to Colombia's cartels had a secret ally: the DEA
- In 2011, DEA Special Agent José Irizarry, posted in Cartagena, Colombia, played a key role in targeting alleged cocaine launderer Diego Marín through Operation White Wash.
- The operation sought to deliver a major setback to Marín, who was identified as a key figure involved in money laundering and funding cocaine trafficking from Colombia; however, a 2020 DEA audit revealed that the reported figures were greatly exaggerated and the investigation was fundamentally flawed.
- Despite investigations, Irizarry began protecting Marín from 2013 by signing him as an informant while Marín built a money-laundering network generating up to $100 million annually across four continents.
- In 2020, Irizarry admitted guilt on multiple money laundering charges and was later detained in Spain following a Colombian warrant accusing him of bribing officials to guarantee safe transit for numerous shipping containers.
- These revelations exposed extensive corruption within the DEA, recalled historic law enforcement scandals, and raised concerns about oversight as Marín remains influential in Colombia, known as the 'Contraband Czar'.
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Santa Maria TimesReposted by 
Independent Español
Independent EspañolAlleged Colombian Cartel Smuggler Had a Secret Ally: the DEA
MIAMI (AP) — In the sordid annals of the Colombian criminal world, Diego Marín stood out as the ultimate survivor.
·Calhoun, United States
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An alleged smuggler to Colombia's cartels had a secret ally: the DEA
MIAMI (AP) — In the sordid annals of Colombia’s underworld, Diego Marín stood out as the ultimate survivor. Time and again, the reputed henchman for the Cali cartel evaded capture — or worse fates — as he built a money-laundering network stretching across four continents. He did so, authorities have alleged, with ruthlessness, street smarts and a willingness to bribe a slew of South American police officers and politicians. All the while, Marín …
·Albuquerque, United States
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Leaning Left12Leaning Right3Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Left
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