Colombian Police Departments Deny Agreement for Australian-Funded Anti-Drug Task Force

Two departments within the Colombian National Police stated they have no evidence of an agreement with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) for a new International Joint Investigative Team (IJIT) in Colombia, despite the AFP's public announcement of the task force[1][4]. This disavowal occurred on October 22, 2026, creating uncertainty around a key international anti-drug initiative.

This discrepancy complicates the operational standing of an international team intended to combat drug trafficking at its source. It also brings into focus questions about transparency and the potential use of shared intelligence in sensitive international operations, particularly concerning United States involvement.

What the Records Show

On October 22, 2026, two Colombian National Police departments declared they possessed no evidence of an agreement with the Australian Federal Police regarding the newly announced International Joint Investigative Team (IJIT)[1][4]. This statement contrasts with the AFP's prior announcement that it would fund and establish such a team in Colombia, specifically to target drug shipments before they reach the Pacific region and Australia[2][6][10][11]. The AFP Commissioner, Krissy Barrett, stated in May 2026 that the new task force would "work directly with the Colombian National Police"[6][15]. The AFP has maintained an office in Colombia since 2000, responsible for South America and parts of the Caribbean, and partners with the Colombian National Police and the Office of the Colombian Attorney-General[3][14].

Concerns also emerged that intelligence shared by the IJIT might be used by the United States for "lethal strikes" against vessels suspected of drug trafficking[5][9][10]. Greens Senator David Shoebridge publicly called for transparency regarding the IJIT's work, stating Australia should not provide information to the United States for "extrajudicial killings"[10]. The AFP has not addressed specific questions about potentially transferring Australian intelligence to the United States within the IJIT framework[9]. In September 2026, UN experts urged Colombia to ensure its security and drug policies do not promote systemic racism, also noting Colombia's ongoing anti-drug cooperation with the U.S.[12][13].

What the Subject Has Said Publicly

The Australian Federal Police has broadly affirmed its commitment to working with international partners to disrupt drug trafficking networks and combat global crime[9]. However, the AFP has declined to provide specific details concerning the IJIT's budget or its operational goals[9].

What we could not confirm

We could not confirm the precise reasons given by the two Colombian National Police departments for their statement of no agreement with the AFP for the IJIT[1][4]. The specific budget allocated to the IJIT or its detailed operational objectives remain unconfirmed by the AFP[9]. We also could not confirm whether intelligence collected by the IJIT would be transferred to U.S. forces for use in "lethal strikes"[5][9][10].