Background on the Situation
In a recent development, at least 57 Colombian soldiers are being held captive by local residents in a southwestern region of Colombia dominated by guerrilla groups, according to a statement from the military institution.
Initial Incidents
On Saturday, a group of soldiers was conducting an operation in El Tambo, part of the Cañón del Micay area, when they were detained by civilians. Later on Sunday, another group of military personnel was surrounded by around 200 locals while traveling towards El Plateado, another nearby town.
Common Practice in Conflict Zones
This situation is not uncommon in conflict-ridden regions of Colombia. Some illegal groups order civilians to detain military or police forces to hinder their advance. The captives are usually released after a few hours following interventions by human rights entities.
Key Players and Their Roles
General Alberto Mejía: He described the situation as a “hostage-taking” orchestrated by guerrillas “infiltrated” within the community.
State Mayor Central (EMC): The military claims that farmers are receiving orders from this dissident group, which is the main splinter of the FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) that did not sign the 2016 peace agreement with the previous government.
President Gustavo Petro’s Efforts
President Gustavo Petro has been trying for months to enable the Colombian armed forces to access the entire Cañón del Micay region, known for its significant coca production used in cocaine manufacturing.
Previous Incidents
In March, 29 soldiers and police officers were also detained by local residents in the same area. They were released after two days.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the soldiers being held hostage? At least 57 Colombian soldiers are currently being detained by civilians in the southwestern region of Colombia.
- Why are the soldiers being held? Local residents, allegedly under the influence of the EMC, a dissident group of the FARC, are detaining soldiers to prevent military advancement in the Cañón del Micay region, a significant coca production area.
- Who is trying to resolve the situation? President Gustavo Petro has been working to allow the Colombian armed forces full access to the Cañón del Micay region.
- What happened in a similar situation in the past? In March, 29 soldiers and police officers were detained under similar circumstances in the same region. They were released after two days following interventions by human rights entities.
