BOGOTÁ — Colombian President Gustavo Petro has fueled talk of a political plot after conservative presidential candidate Miguel Uribe was critically shot in the head by a 15-year-old gunman during a campaign event in Bogotá.

Petro questioned why Uribe’s security team was cut from seven to three on the day of the attack, calling it “strange” and demanding an investigation. The teen suspect allegedly used a Glock bought in Arizona, but authorities say the motive and mastermind remain unknown.

While Petro condemned the shooting, he also accused opponents of exploiting the incident for political gain. Critics, in turn, accuse him of stoking unrest.

Security officials admitted the protection detail was below standard due to scheduling issues. Uribe’s lawyer has filed a complaint, citing ignored warnings and repeated security upgrade requests.