Colombian Luis Garavito, nicknamed La Bestia (The Beast), raped, tortured, mutilated and killed at least 193 boys and girls in the 1990s and is considered the greatest serial killer in modern history. However, next year he will be eligible for parole.

Serial killer Luis Garavito, known as “La Bestia” – Photo: Reproduction/ND

Garavito attacked vulnerable children and teenagers on the streets. He often gained the trust of victims by posing as a priest. The total number of victims is still unknown, but it could be as high as 300. The information was taken from the “Page not found” page of the “Extra” portal.

An investigation into the murders began when a mass grave containing the bodies of more than 35 children was discovered. Almost all were boys and showed signs of sexual abuse and prolonged torture.

Police arrived in Garavito after he left personal items at the crime scene. The Colombian fell asleep with a cigarette in his hand and set it on fire. He was burned, leaving behind money, burnt glasses, shorts, shoes and underwear.

During the investigation, a friend gave the agents a suitcase that Garavito had left at her house. Inside, investigators found photographs of the boys, a death diary, and “memories” of the victims.

The serial killer was initially sentenced to 1853 years and 9 days in prison, the longest sentence in Colombian history. However, the law changed, setting the maximum sentence in the country at 40 years.

Because he helped the police find the bodies of several of his victims, Garavito was sentenced to 22 years. He claims that he behaves “about” in prison. The convict says that “an evil force” pushed him to commit barbaric crimes.

In a 2006 interview, Garavito said that he thought of a political career as a platform to fight child abuse.