Colombian Authorities Arrest Suspect in Chile for Murder of Police Officer

Colombian authorities have arrested a Venezuelan suspect, Dayonis Junior Orozco, for the murder of a Chilean police officer, Emmanuel Sánchez Soto, during a robbery in Chile on April 10, 2024. The suspect was apprehended in Popatan, southwestern Colombia, as he was attempting to return to Venezuela. Orozco had been traveling to small towns to avoid arrest.

The arrest was a joint effort between Chilean and Venezuelan police. Authorities had been tracking Orozco's movements since the murder occurred two weeks ago. "We worked closely with our Chilean counterparts to locate and apprehend the suspect," said a spokesperson for the Colombian National Police. "This was a heinous crime, and we are pleased to have brought the perpetrator to justice."

Officer Sánchez Soto, 28, was responding to a robbery call in Santiago, Chile when he was shot and killed by the suspect. Surveillance footage from the scene showed Orozco fleeing on foot after the shooting. Chilean authorities immediately launched a manhunt and reached out to neighboring countries for assistance.

Why this matters: The arrest highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating crime and bringing criminals to justice. It also underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty, even in response to seemingly routine calls.

Orozco will be extradited to Chile to face charges of murder and armed robbery. If convicted, he could face up to life in prison under Chilean law. "We will ensure that Officer Sánchez Soto's killer is held fully accountable for this senseless act of violence," vowed the Chilean Minister of Interior and Public Security. The fallen officer is survived by his wife and two young children.

Key Takeaways

• Venezuelan suspect Dayonis Junior Orozco arrested for killing Chilean police officer
• Orozco apprehended in Colombia while attempting to return to Venezuela
• Arrest resulted from joint effort between Chilean and Venezuelan police
• Officer Sánchez Soto, 28, killed while responding to a robbery call in Santiago
• Orozco faces extradition to Chile to face charges of murder and armed robbery