453: Javier Peña and Steve Murphy | Taking Down Pablo Escobar

Life Undercover

Living undercover in Colombia presented unique challenges for Javier Peña and Steve Murphy. Peña recalls the constant threat of violence, sharing how he had to quickly evacuate his apartment after a threat from Pablo Escobar's sicarios was intercepted 1. Murphy recounts a tense encounter involving his wife, where they were blocked by armed men, highlighting the ever-present danger 2. These experiences were not isolated, as Murphy notes that during Escobar's escape, daily life in Medellín was fraught with peril, with constant raids and surveillance operations 3.

If you hear gunshots, don't try and run around and find where they're coming from. Even if you're armed, just take cover and sit quietly.

--- Javier Peña

   

Combatting Threats

Facing threats was a daily reality for Peña and Murphy as they pursued Escobar. Peña describes the seriousness of intercepted threats, emphasizing the constant danger from Escobar's network 4. Murphy shares a chilling story of a young sicario willing to die for Escobar, illustrating the deep loyalty and fear Escobar commanded 5. The agents also dealt with accusations of being involved with Los Pepes, a vigilante group targeting Escobar's associates, adding another layer of complexity to their mission 6.

I helped arrest a 15-year-old thug sicario and he told me, "I worked for Pablo Escobar. I will die and kill for Pablo Escobar."

--- Javier Peña

   

Collaborative Strategy

Collaboration between American agents and Colombian forces was crucial in the hunt for Escobar. Murphy highlights the strategic use of informants and the challenges of dealing with Escobar's luxurious prison, which he describes as a "country club" 7. The agents also navigated the complexities of international cooperation, including dealing with mercenaries hired by Escobar's associates 8. Despite these challenges, their efforts significantly reduced violence in Colombia, with the murder rate dropping by 80% after Escobar's death 9.

The agreement he reached with the Colombian government — you know, we call it the deal of a lifetime. It's the most outrageous plea bargain we've ever heard in our lives.

--- Steve Murphy