The Outbreak of Crime: The War Over Control of Colombia's Emerald Industry'

The recent audacious raid on the Cunas mine in Boyaca, Colombia, has sparked concerns about the potential outbreak of crime and violence in the emerald trade. The attack, which involved a group of around two dozen armed men, is seen as an escalation of tensions in the industry following a series of attacks against the business and associates of the 'Emerald Czar', Victor Carranza.

Carranza, who has dominated Colombia's emerald industry for over two decades, has been struggling to maintain control due to his deteriorating health. The 90-year-old billionaire is reportedly nearing death from cancer, leading to fears that a power vacuum could lead to a new war breaking out as rivals fight for control of the industry.

The recent attacks on Carranza's interests are seen as a sign that his grip is loosening, and it appears that rival groups are positioning themselves to take over. Pedro Rincon, known as 'Pedro Orejas', has been accused of being behind the recent attacks, as well as an assassination attempt against Carranza in 2010.

The emerald trade has a long history of violence and conflict, with some 3,000 people killed in the struggle for control over three decades. However, a peace deal brokered by Carranza in 1990 brought an end to the violence, but it appears that this fragile peace is now under threat.

In recent months, there have been numerous reports of murders and attempted murders of individuals involved in the emerald trade. According to El Tiempo, authorities have registered some 19 such incidents in the last few months. The attacks are seen as a sign of the escalating tensions and power struggles in the industry.

The raid on the Cunas mine is particularly significant, as it suggests that rival groups are willing to use violence to gain control of the industry. The mine was previously attacked earlier this year, with security cameras disconnected and employees beaten and threatened before emeralds were stolen.

The situation has prompted Carranza to call a fifth meeting of the industry's biggest players in just over a year, in an effort to avert a war for control of the industry. However, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will be successful, or if the outbreak of crime and violence will continue to escalate.

As tensions continue to rise, it is clear that the fate of Colombia's emerald industry hangs in the balance. The war over control of this lucrative trade is far from over, and it remains to be seen what the future holds for the country's emeralds and those who depend on them.

This war of mine outbreak of crime