A Colombian alleged narco-terrorism leader accused of commanding an armed force of roughly 1,000 fighters has been extradited to California, where he faces federal charges that could result in a life sentence.
Geovany Andres Rojas, 45, who is known by the alias “Spider,” was transferred from Colombia to US custody on Thursday.
Rojas was brought to an undisclosed location in San Diego at approximately 4:30 p.m., accompanied by agents from the DEA and FBI.
The extradition began with a tightly secured handover at a Colombian National Police air base in Bogota. Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella was present for the transfer to US authorities.
“Colombia and the Department of Justice are making a clean sweep of narcoterrorists, starting with Rojas,” US Attorney Adam Gordon said.
US prosecutors allege that Rojas headed Comandos de la Frontera, a heavily armed paramilitary group believed to have approximately 1,000 members across southwestern Colombia.
Authorities say Rojas openly showcased his influence online and in media interviews, appearing alongside firearms and heavily armed members of the organization.
RELATED: Top NFL Draft QB Prospect Knocked Out Cold by Brutal Hit
According to prosecutors, the group generated revenue through cocaine cultivation and manufacturing, then used intimidation and violence to maintain control over territory in one of Colombia’s most important cocaine-producing areas.
“Their cocaine fueled the Mexican cartels pumping poison into our communities,” Gordon said.
Rojas previously fought with the FARC and signed onto Colombia’s 2016 peace agreement before allegedly returning to armed activity.
Colombian authorities arrested him in February 2025 under an Interpol warrant connected to narcotics allegations. Although his extradition was subsequently approved, the process was postponed as he participated in peace negotiations.
President Abelardo de la Espriella ultimately directed that Rojas be sent to the United States on Aug. 26.
Rojas is charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine internationally and with narco-terrorism.
The international cocaine conspiracy count carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison. The narco-terrorism charge carries a minimum sentence of 20 years and also allows for a life sentence.
Rojas is scheduled to make his first appearance at 2 p.m. on Sept. 28 before US Magistrate Judge Steve B. Chu.
