Pubdate: Wed, 03 Apr 2002
Source: Duluth News-Tribune (MN)
Copyright: 2002 Duluth News-Tribune
Contact:  http://www.duluthsuperior.com/mld/duluthtribune/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/553

COLOMBIAN REBELS LINKED TO DRUG TRADE, OFFICIAL SAYS

WASHINGTON -- New evidence shows that rebel and paramilitary groups in 
Colombia are "deeply involved in the cocaine trade from start to finish," 
said Asa Hutchinson, Drug Enforcement Administration chief.

He added that the United States needs to do more to help vanquish such 
groups as part of the war on terrorism.

Hutchinson, who just returned from a trip to Colombia, also said that 
Carlos Castano, head of Colombia's largest paramilitary organization, is 
under U.S. investigation on suspicion of drug trafficking.

Forces that have retaken rebel-held territory recently are finding drug 
labs and other strong evidence of drug processing and trafficking, 
Hutchinson said.

The DEA chief said he hoped Congress soon would approve a Bush 
administration request to broaden U.S. support for Colombia's war on 
guerrilla groups.

Restrictions limit most U.S. aid to counternarcotics efforts. Some members 
of Congress warn that direct assistance to the Colombian military to fight 
the guerrillas -- with more intelligence, training and advice -- could lead 
to deeper U.S. involvement in a protracted conflict.

"There's no distinction between terrorists who kidnap presidential 
candidates and traffickers who operate the labs," Hutchinson said. "Our 
logistical support for the Colombian government should not be restricted."

Like other Bush officials, Hutchinson tried to redefine the drug war as an 
important component in the war on terrorism. He said DEA agents in 56 
countries were providing "value-added intelligence" on possible terrorism 
to the FBI and CIA.

Hutchinson urged expanding the DEA's role in Afghanistan, Pakistan and 
Uzbekistan.
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