Carlos Lehder, a co-founder of the infamous Medellín Cartel, was released from prison on Monday after a Colombian court ruled that his sentence had expired.

Following his release, Lehder jubilantly exclaimed, "Viva Colombia!" while waving his release documents outside the correctional facility.

This decision has left many of his victims and their families in disbelief and distress, as it reflects the ongoing challenges within the Colombian legal system regarding drug trafficking cases.

Lehder was arrested in the mid-1980s and was convicted on charges related to drug trafficking, which saw him play a pivotal role in the cocaine trade during its peak in Colombia.

His criminal activities contributed significantly to the violence and chaos associated with the Medellín Cartel, which dominated the drug market in the United States and other regions during that era.

After serving more than three decades in prison, his recent release underscores the complex dynamics of drug law enforcement and judicial processes in Colombia.

The legal proceedings surrounding Lehder's case highlight ongoing debates about sentencing laws, the handling of drug-related crimes, and the reintegration of former offenders into society.

As Colombia continues to grapple with the legacy of the drug trade and its implications for justice and victim restitution, Lehder's exit from prison serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that remain.

Victims and their advocates have expressed concern regarding the message this ruling sends about accountability and justice in cases involving high-profile drug traffickers.

In the wake of his release, discussions are anticipated regarding legislative reforms aimed at addressing the issues within the criminal justice framework that allowed for such outcomes.

Meanwhile, various stakeholders, including human rights organizations, are expected to monitor the implications of this high-profile case on broader drug policy and law enforcement efforts in Colombia.