Due to fierce battles between the armed rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and former members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in Columbia were forced to leave more than 32 thousand people.
According to the Ombudsman’s office, 17 thousand people found refuge in the cities of Kukut and Oakan in the north of North de Santantaner, thousands were settled in other regions.
The press service of the Presidential Administration noted that the army took control of many regions that needed 33 tons of gum.
President of Colombia Gustavo Petro admitted that security efforts did not give the desired results.
According to the president, this may become one of the most dramatic events of modern history. “We need to figure out why ELN has become stronger over the past few months,” said Petro.
On the eve of the president, in X about the introduction of a special position in the country in connection with internal shocks and an emergency in the economic sphere.
Clashes between ELN and former FARC members began on January 16 due to the struggle for control over cocaine plantations and drug smuggling routes.
On the frames published on social networks, the bodies of those who died on the streets and raids on the houses of local residents are visible.
The president previously announced the suspension of dialogue with ELN, emphasizing that the grouping does not show the desire for the world. He called Eln actions in the catatumbo “military crimes.”
The peace negotiations resumed in November 2022 were interrupted after the ELN attack on the military base in September 2024, which died three soldiers and 30 were injured. Despite this, in November 2024, negotiations resumed with the mediation of Venezuela.