[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[July 23, 1992]
[Page 1168]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 1168]]

Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the Escape of Pablo Escobar

July 23, 1992
    Pablo Escobar escaped from prison when Colombian authorities 
attempted to move him to a more secure facility. This is unfortunate at 
a time when President Gaviria was trying to control the prison and put 
an end to Escobar's criminal activities. Escobar and his ilk represent a 
threat to law-abiding, civilized societies throughout the hemisphere, 
and they must be brought to justice.
    This incident underlines the difficulties legitimate governments 
have in halting drug trafficking and placing drug traffickers before the 
bar of justice. We have strongly supported President Gaviria and the 
people of Colombia in their valiant fight against these violent 
international criminal organizations. We will continue that support and 
cooperation, especially to strengthen the Colombian judicial system.