Rebel violence in Colombia’s Catatumbo region has resulted in 60 deaths due to conflicts between the ELN and FArc, disrupting peace negotiations and escalating humanitarian issues. Community leaders are particularly at risk, with reports of kidnappings and food shortages affecting thousands of displaced residents.
A surge in violence attributed to rebel factions in Colombia’s Catatumbo region has resulted in a tragic death toll of 60 individuals, as reported by the country’s human rights office. This uptick in violence arises from a long-standing rivalry between armed groups, primarily focusing on control of the lucrative cocaine trade, especially near the Venezuela border.
The Ombudsman’s Office identified the conflict between the National Liberation Army (ELN), the largest active armed group in Colombia, and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FArc), which had engaged in peace negotiations following a treaty in 2016. The recent attacks signify a breakdown of an uneasy truce between these guerrilla factions, escalating the violence in the region.
Previously, the Ombudsman’s Office reported 40 fatalities linked to this violence, pointing out a ‘special risk’ to community leaders and their families from the ELN. Alarmingly, 20 individuals have been reported kidnapped, with women comprising half of this number.
Notably, seven signatories of the peace treaty, along with Carmelo Guerrero, leader of the local advocacy group Asuncat, were among those killed. Asuncat expressed concern over the disappearance of board members Roger Quintero and Freiman Velasquez, suspecting they may have been abducted by armed groups.
Moreover, the region is facing food shortages, further aggravating the plight of local communities. Reports indicate that thousands have been displaced as a result of the violence, putting vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities, at great risk.
The Association of Mothers of Catatumbo for Peace condemned the situation, stating that the violence affects entire communities and instills fear among children. The Ombudsman’s Office has primarily attributed the latest spate of violence to the ELN, whose peace negotiations with the government were suspended due to escalating conflict.
President Gustavo Petro accused the ELN of committing war crimes, emphasizing their lack of commitment to achieving peace. In a counter-statement, the ELN accused FArc of initiating violence against civilians, although FArc has yet to publicly respond.
In response to the unrest, the Colombian army has mobilized additional troops to the region to address the deteriorating security situation and restore order.
Colombia has a longstanding issue with violence linked to drug trafficking, predominantly cocaine. The Catatumbo region has witnessed intense fighting between various armed groups vying for dominance over drug production and trade. The National Liberation Army (ELN) remains a significant threat, alongside FArc, which transitioned to a political entity after signing a peace agreement with the government in 2016. However, factions within these groups continue to engage in violent confrontations, undermining peace efforts and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in affected communities.
The recent violence in Colombia’s Catatumbo, marked by 60 fatalities, underscores the grave challenges that armed groups present to the ongoing peace process. The clash between the ELN and FArc signifies a dangerous escalation that threatens community safety and exacerbates humanitarian conditions. Concerted efforts by the Colombian government, including military interventions, are essential to restore order and protect vulnerable populations in the region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
