In Colombia’s Catatumbo region, a human rights group warns that rebel factions have committed severe abuses against civilians in their battle for dominance. Human Rights Watch’s 12-page report highlighted instances of unarmed farmers being executed and the rampant forced recruitment of children by these groups. The urgent call for the Colombian government to accelerate homicide investigations stems from the grim aftermath of a truce breaking down, with at least 78 killings reported early this year.
Juanita Goebertus, Americas director for Human Rights Watch, stated, “Our research points to widespread abuses against ordinary people.” The Colombian Human Rights Ombudsman’s Office noted dire displacement, with over 56,000 individuals forced to leave their homes since mid-January due to the violent resurgence of the ELN. In several instances, rebels reportedly executed individuals accused of collaborating with rival factions.
Juan Pappier, deputy director for the Americas at HRW, elaborated on the ELN’s motives, suggesting its ambitions to solidify its position along the Venezuelan border are largely driven by drug trafficking interests. Eyewitness accounts from residents reveal chilling tales of brutality, with farmers being killed before their families. Additionally, the rival FARC-EMC has been implicated in operating forced labour camps, compelling locals to toil long hours.
In light of these alarming developments, Human Rights Watch urged Colombian authorities to bolster their investigative resources in the Catatumbo area. Following an escalation of violence attributed to the ELN, peace negotiations were abruptly halted, prompting President Gustavo Petro to confront the leaders of the ELN, claiming they veered from their initial revolutionary ethos into the realm of greed.
Despite a general decline in violence post the 2016 peace agreement with FARC, regions like Catatumbo are now grappling with escalating crime levels. The National Liberation Army, with an estimated 6,000 members operating in both countries, continues to assert its influence over this beleaguered area.
Human Rights Watch reports grave abuses by Colombian rebel groups in the Catatumbo region, highlighting executions of farmers, forced recruitment of children, and mass displacements surpassing 56,000 people since January. The group urges the Colombian government to intensify homicide investigations after renewed violence ensued following a ceasefire collapse. The National Liberation Army’s control efforts and drug trafficking ambitions are central to the ongoing crisis.
In summary, the Catatumbo region stands as a distressing representation of rising violence and civilian suffering due to the power struggles among Colombia’s rebel factions. Human Rights Watch emphasises the need for urgent investigations and aid from the government to uphold the rights and safety of its citizens. As historical peace efforts face setbacks, the spectre of the past looms ominously over this turbulent landscape, beckoning for immediate attention and action.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
