http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGBRVR9OK8E.htmlBOGOTA, Colombia (AP) - Two U.S. soldiers detained for allegedly attempting to sell ammunition to Colombian right-wing paramilitary groups have been flown to the United States, where they were placed in custody, officials said Tuesday.
The soldiers' quiet departure for the United States came despite widespread calls from Colombian lawmakers and senior officials for them to face trial here. The case has embarrassed Washington, coming less than two months after five U.S. service members were detained for allegedly smuggling cocaine aboard a military aircraft to the United States.
Warrant Officer Allan N. Tanquary and Sgt. Jesus Hernandez, who have diplomatic immunity within Colombia, were flown to the United States on Friday and placed in custody of the Defense Department, a U.S. Embassy spokesman said after a reporter asked about the pair's whereabouts.
The case and other allegations of wrongdoing by U.S. troops in Colombia have sparked ire in this Andean nation, which is battling a long-running insurgency fueled by drug trafficking.
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