Colombia's New President Proposes Prison Ships for Dangerous Criminals

Colombia's newly inaugurated hard-right government, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, is considering a controversial proposal to house highly dangerous criminals on prison ships adrift at sea. A defense ministry source confirmed on Wednesday that the president, who took office earlier this month, has asked for the plan to be implemented. The proposal emerged during a security council meeting, and the Colombian Navy has been tasked with overseeing the project, though further details remain undisclosed. President de la Espriella, a US-backed millionaire, campaigned on a platform of aggressive action against armed groups in Colombia, the world's largest cocaine producer. His promises included bombing guerrillas and constructing 'mega prisons' modeled after those in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele. Humanitarian watchdogs have warned that such incarceration methods could breach human rights standards. Proponents argue that prison ships would prevent escapes and limit detainees' contact with dangerous individuals and the outside world. The plan has sparked debate over its feasibility and ethical implications, with critics questioning the legality and humanity of offshore detention. The announcement comes as Colombia faces ongoing security challenges, and the government's hardline stance signals a shift in its approach to crime and insurgency. The proposal's development will be closely monitored by international observers and human rights organizations.