Colombia’s chief of police faces backlash for using exorcism, prayer to tackle crime
Date
3/26/2023 7:14:28 AM
(MENAFN) General Henry Sanabria, Colombia’s chief of police, has sparked controversy after claiming that he and other officers have used exorcism and prayer to tackle crime and the country’s most powerful criminals, including drug cartel leader Pablo Escobar [1]. In an interview with Semana magazine, Sanabria said that these religious practices have helped the Police throughout the last 50 years of armed conflict in the South American country [1].
Sanabria, who sits in his office surrounded by crucifixes, effigies of the Virgin Mary, and other Catholic symbols, claimed that the existence of the devil is certain and that he has seen and felt him [1]. He also claimed that criminals use witchcraft and that in one operation, a police officer was able to kill one of them by “praying while shooting” [1].
Sanabria’s statements have sparked fierce debates on social media in Colombia, a secular country with Catholic traditions [1]. Some have criticized his use of religion in law enforcement, while others have defended his beliefs [1].
This is not the first time that Sanabria has made controversial statements. In the past, he has been criticized for his handling of protests and for his support of former President Alvaro Uribe, who has been accused of human rights violations [2].
President Gustavo Petro has not expressed concern about Sanabria’s recent statements, stating that they do not affect the rules of law enforcement [1]. However, the use of exorcism and prayer in policing has raised questions about the separation of religion and state in Colombia.
In conclusion, General Henry Sanabria’s use of exorcism and prayer in law enforcement has sparked controversy in Colombia. While some defend his beliefs, others criticize the use of religion in policing and call for a separation of church and state. The debate highlights the challenges facing law enforcement in a country with a complex history of armed conflict and religious traditions.
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