Colombia Orders Execution of Pablo Escobar's Hippos

Colombian judges have ordered the execution of the invasive herd of hippos originally owned by drug lord Pablo Escobar, following their significant environmental impact and threats to human safety. The hippos, which have grown from an initial 16 to about 200 since their escape in 1993, have been damaging local ecosystems and attacking fishermen on the Magdalena River. Experts warn that without intervention, the population could exceed 1,000, exacerbating the danger. The Administrative Court in Cundinamarca mandated that the Environment Ministry eradicate the animals within three months, citing previous failed attempts at population control. While some advocate for sterilization and relocation, the urgency of the situation has led to widespread support for culling as a necessary measure. The hippos' waste is also a concern, as it disrupts local flora and fauna, further complicating the environmental challenges they pose.