NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 28, 2026Miami-Dade
Abelardo de la Espriella administration considers resuming aerial herbicide spraying for coca eradication in Colombia
The administration of Abelardo de la Espriella has signaled a potential return to aerial spraying of illicit crops using a herbicide that was banned in Colombia over ten years ago. This move would reverse a long-standing prohibition on the use of chemical aerial fumigation for drug eradication efforts.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
The decision to resume could significantly alter national drug enforcement strategies, environmental safety protocols, and the health of rural communities exposed to the chemical.
Key Facts
- The administration is exploring the resumption of aerial spraying for illicit crop eradication.
- The specific herbicide involved was banned in Colombia more than ten years ago.
- Aerial spraying was previously prohibited due to controversy surrounding the chemical's use.
Who's Mentioned
personIván Duque“Former president who previously attempted to resume aerial fumigation.”personGustavo Petro“Former president whose policy prioritized voluntary eradication.”personCarlos Gómina“Vice Minister of Criminal Policy and Restorative Justice who signed the resoluti”locationColombia“The country where the policy change is proposed.”personAbelardo de la Espriella“Current government leader overseeing the policy shift.”organizationCorte Constitucional“The court that suspended glyphosate spraying in 2015.”other261,000“Hectares of coca planted in Colombia in 2024.”organizationAP“The news agency reporting the story.”