Recent rebel violence in Colombia’s Catatumbo has resulted in 60 deaths, primarily involving clashes between the ELN and Farc. The violence has disrupted a peace process, with many community members facing kidnapping risks. Local advocacy groups and officials have voiced concerns over deteriorating conditions and food shortages, prompting military responses to restore order.
In Colombia’s Catatumbo region, the death toll from recent attacks attributed to rebel violence has increased to 60, as reported by the country’s Ombudsman’s Office. The violence is primarily between the National Liberation Army (ELN), the largest active armed group, and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), which previously signed a peace accord with the government in 2016, highlighting the instability in an area critical to the cocaine trade.
The Ombudsman’s Office indicated that these assaults have disrupted a fragile truce between the involved groups. Many residents, including community leaders, face heightened risks of kidnapping or death, with reports indicating that 20 individuals, including numerous women, have recently been abducted. Among the deceased are seven signatories of the peace treaty along with Carmelo Guerrero, a leader of local advocacy group Asuncat.
Asuncat has raised concerns regarding the disappearance of its board members, asserting that armed groups may be responsible. The situation is dire, with growing food shortages affecting residents and thousands displaced due to ongoing violence. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and pregnant women, are particularly suffering as a consequence of this unrest.
The Association of Mothers of Catatumbo for Peace has expressed distress over the violence, stating, “Catatumbo is once again stained with blood. The bullets exchanged not only hurt those who hold the weapons but also tear apart the dreams of our communities, break up families and sow terror in the hearts of our children.”
President Gustavo Petro has condemned the ELN’s actions as constituting war crimes, indicating a lack of commitment to the peace process, which was suspended amid the recent violence. The ELN, however, has accused Farc of igniting this conflict through attacks on civilians, but Farc has not yet responded publicly. In response to the escalating situation, the Colombian army is mobilizing additional troops to restore order in the region.
Colombia has faced significant challenges related to armed conflict and drug trade, particularly in regions like Catatumbo, which is located along the Venezuelan border. The area has become a battleground for rival drug gangs and guerrilla factions, complicating peace efforts established with groups like Farc. The resurgence of violence, particularly between the ELN and Farc, raises substantial concerns regarding human rights and civilian safety in the region.
The recent wave of violence in Colombia’s Catatumbo region underscores the fragility of peace efforts between armed groups, revealing the devastating impacts on civilians. With a rising death toll and increased risks of abduction, the humanitarian crisis is escalating, prompting government intervention. Urgent measures and sustained dialogue are essential to restore stability and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations in this volatile region.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
