THE BEGINNINGS IN THE UNDERWORLD

Pinina was born in a Medellín neighborhood called “Lovaina”. At that time — and even by today’s standards — it was not a safe place. In this area, the formation of criminal “combos”, often recruiting young children, became an alternative for many youths lacking guidance, leading them into the mafia underworld.

Jhon Jairo Arias Tascón, born into a very humble family, was one of many who started at a very young age. He became accustomed to violence and crime, eventually embracing that path. From theft to contract killings, by his early teenage years he had already acquired “street knowledge” that would later prove deadly and valuable to the Medellín Cartel.

There are multiple theories regarding his entry into the cartel. Some sources claim he was part of Los Priscos, a group involved in car theft and criminal activities. Others state he was introduced by key lieutenants such as “El Flaco Calavera” and Jorge Pabón “El Negro Pabón”.

Another version suggests that Pinina stole a radio from a vehicle belonging to Pablo Escobar. After being tracked down, Escobar allegedly recruited him upon recognizing his background. This likely happened when he was around 15 or 16 years old.

His nickname “Pinina” is believed to have originated from a novela featuring Argentine actress Andrea del Boca.

THE “UNIVERSITIES” OF CRIME

Before expanding further, it is important to mention Fabián Tamayo, known as “Chiruza”, often described as Pinina’s right-hand man. He managed an “oficina” in Guayabal, which functioned as a hub for criminal operations.

These “oficinas” served as logistical centers for planning crimes, coordinating gangs, and handling payments. Groups like Los Tyson, Pasarela, and others operated within this structure.

After Chiruza’s death, several hitmen rose through the ranks, but Pinina remained a key operational leader within the cartel.

MONITO: A VAST RECORD OF CRIMINAL ACTIVITY

As the Medellín Cartel grew and international pressure increased, Colombia entered a period of extreme violence. Judges, police officers, journalists, and officials became targets.

Pinina is believed to have coordinated several major attacks, including assassinations, bombings, kidnappings, and participation in paramilitary groups such as MAS.

Despite his lack of formal education, he showed a strong ability to plan complex operations. His network helped recruit numerous hitmen during the cartel’s most violent years.

He maintained direct communication with Pablo Escobar, without intermediaries, and controlled networks of informants within law enforcement and government sectors.

DIED BY HIS OWN CODE

Due to his low profile, capturing him proved extremely difficult. Eventually, authorities located him through information obtained from a domestic worker.

Pinina lived in a building in El Poblado with his family. When police raided the location, he attempted to escape but was killed in a shootout on June 13, 1990.

The following day, a car bomb exploded in retaliation, injuring over 100 people. His death was seen as a major blow to the cartel, though not enough to stop its operations.

In the aftermath, Escobar mistakenly ordered the execution of two trusted lieutenants, believing they had betrayed Pinina.