A Colombian think tank has published a book about the business networks used by paramilitary group the AUC, showing how the militia managed to gain funds and support through business contacts and networks of corrupt officials.
The book by Corporacion Nuevo Arco Iris, entitled “The Businesses of the Paras” ("Los negocios de los paras"), details the financial dealings of the United Self Defense Forces (Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia – AUC).
The paramilitaries managed to take control of royalties from oil, coal, land and even health care funds, reports Semana. Failures in regulation allowed this to take place, with the help of corrupt politicians. The article names Senator Dieb Maloof, who allegedly had links with the AUC's Northern Bloc.
The book also reportedly discusses the case of Enilse Lopez, alias "La Gata," a businesswoman recently convicted for her ties with paramilitaries.
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