Trial begins of Colombia spy chief granted asylum by Panama

Colombia’s  Supreme Court (CSJ) in Colombia has begun the  espionage trial of Maria del Pilar Hurtado, former chief of intelligence, who was granted asylum in Panama by President Martinelli.

Also on trial is  Bernardo Moreno, former general secretary of President Alvaro Uribe.

The two former officials close to former President  Uribe (2002-2010)  were allegedly involved in the tracking of political opponents, judges, human rights defenders and journalists.

Hurtado and Moreno are linked to the spy plot mounted by the state  Department of Administrative Security (DAS) for much of the two Governments Uribe.

On May 18 the Attorney General, Viviane Morales formally accused formally Hurtado and Moreno and asked for their commitment  to prison. Morales indicted Hurtado on charges of aggravated conspiracy, abuse of public office, embezzlement by appropriation, illegal interception of communications, misrepresentation and misuse of public money to pay bribes.

Moreno, was accused of conspiracy, abuse of public office and unlawful violation of communications. The same day the Attorney General sought the immediate the  arrest of both former officials.

Morales late sought the extradition of Hurtado, the former head of the DAS a request denied by the Government of Panama.