Background on the Situation
Venezuela has been grappling with drug trafficking issues, particularly along its border with Colombia. The presence of armed groups involved in narcotrafficking has posed a significant challenge to the country’s security. Recently, the Venezuelan Armed Forces reported the destruction of two camps belonging to Colombian drug trafficking groups.
The Operation Against Tancol
On Wednesday, the Venezuelan Armed Forces announced that they had successfully destroyed two logistical bases used by the “Terrorist Armed Narcotraffickers of Colombia” (Tancol) in the southern state of Amazonas. This operation coincided with the increased military presence of the United States in the Caribbean.
General Domingo Hernández Larez, head of the Strategic Command of the Venezuelan Armed Forces, confirmed via Telegram that military personnel had dismantled these campuses in Amazonas. He referred to the groups as “invading Tancol” – a term used by the Venezuelan government to describe irregular groups operating along the border.
During the operation, soldiers discovered propaganda materials from the Colombian guerrilla group ELN (National Liberation Army). Among the seized items were ammunition, all-terrain vehicles, tactical vests, and fuel.
Previous Operations Against Narcoterrorist Groups
Earlier in October, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino announced the destruction of camps in Bolivar and Zulia states, belonging to narcoterrorist groups linked to the Colombian ELN and FARC.
US Military Presence in the Caribbean
Since August, the United States has deployed warships in the Caribbean, citing a mission to combat drug cartels allegedly associated with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Maduro denies these claims, asserting that Venezuela is a drug-free territory with minimal involvement in the transportation of Colombian drugs.
Venezuela’s Anti-Drug Operations
Amidst the US military maneuvers, Venezuela has conducted multiple anti-drug operations. US forces have confirmed bombing 14 alleged narco-vessels since September 2nd, resulting in at least 57 deaths, according to Washington.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the Tancol? The Tancol, or Terrorist Armed Narcotraffickers of Colombia, are irregular groups involved in drug trafficking activities along the Venezuelan-Colombian border.
- What is the significance of the recent operation? The Venezuelan Armed Forces successfully destroyed two key logistical bases used by Tancol, disrupting their operations and seizing weapons and supplies.
- Why is the US increasing its military presence in the Caribbean? The United States claims it is combating drug cartels allegedly linked to the Venezuelan government.
- How does President Maduro respond to these allegations? Maduro denies any association with drug cartels and asserts that Venezuela is a drug-free territory.
- What are the US actions against alleged narco-vessels? Since September, the US has conducted bombing operations against 14 alleged narco-vessels in the Caribbean, resulting in numerous fatalities.
