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| Caribbean-Latin America |
| U.S. to Let Colombia Question Soldiers |
| 2005-05-07 |
| The United States on Friday said Colombian prosecutors could question two U.S. soldiers accused of selling arms to far-right death squads. The U.S. concession came amid growing anger in Colombia over Washington's refusal to allow the suspects to be tried in Colombia. But U.S. Ambassador William Wood said the soldiers will be severely punished if found guilty by a U.S. military court. "Immunity does not mean impunity," he said. Wood made the comments during a visit to western Tolima state where Warrant Officer Allan N. Tanquary and Sgt. Jesus Hernandez were arrested Tuesday at a luxury estate and accused of plotting to deliver 40,000 rounds of ammunition to a paramilitary militia. They were turned over to U.S. authorities on Thursday despite widespread calls from lawmakers and senior officials for them to face trial in Colombia. The case has deeply embarrassed Washington, coming less than two months after five U.S. service members were detained for allegedly smuggling cocaine aboard a military aircraft to the United States. |
| Posted by:Fred |