Colombia’s ELN guerrilla group has initiated a 72-hour armed strike in Choco, enforcing strict lockdowns, halting transportation, and closing schools. This strike aims to illustrate alleged government complicity in local conflicts, exacerbating an ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting 20,000 people. Authorities accuse the ELN of committing war crimes, leading to government intervention calls.
In a significant escalation of violence, Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) has instigated a 72-hour “armed strike” in the Choco region, commencing Tuesday. This action enforces a strict lockdown for the civilian population, compelling residents to remain at home and halting transportation across public roads. Educational institutions in various rural and urban areas under ELN influence are also closed, according to Choco Governor Nubia Cordoba.
The strike severely hampers essential services, impacting food, healthcare, and medicine availability. Governor Cordoba has called on President Gustavo Petro’s government to act promptly to restore order and ensure citizen safety. The ELN claims the purpose of the strike is to reveal alleged collusion amid state, military, and mercenary forces operating in the region.
In a statement released on February 15, the group emphasized that the government is primarily accountable for the rampant humanitarian crisis in Choco and the Gulf Cartel’s growing power. Despite a prior ceasefire agreement, Colombia has witnessed nine armed strikes since then, with the current strike affecting a broader area and confining around 20,000 individuals. Ongoing violence has led to mass displacements as well.
Authorities charge that various war crimes, including the deployment of anti-personnel mines, are perpetrated by these armed groups. Governor Cordoba cited that around 80% of Choco is compromised by such mines. In light of the humanitarian catastrophe triggered by the ELN’s activities in Catatumbo, Petro’s administration suspended peace negotiations with the guerrilla group.
The humanitarian situation has deteriorated considerably, resulting in enforced confinement, forced minor recruitment, civilian homicides, and the prolific laying of explosive devices, severely curtailing free movement within the affected zones.
The ELN’s declaration of an armed strike has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, disrupting essential services and restricting the movement of thousands in the Choco region. As the government suspends peace talks, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with serious accusations against armed groups. Immediate intervention is needed to address these challenges and to protect the civilian population.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
