Clashes Between Rival Guerrilla Groups Escalate Amid Colombian Elections
At least 52 guerrilla fighters died in clashes between rival groups in Colombia's Guaviare region, a FARC faction reported. The violence erupted just before a crucial presidential election. Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed the fighting, but details remain scarce. Tension continues amid failed peace agreements.
In a tragic escalation of violence just before Columbia's presidential elections, at least 52 guerrilla fighters were reported killed during fierce clashes between rival armed groups. The factions, vying for control of a crucial cocaine production zone, clashed in Colombia's volatile Guaviare region. A FARC group issued the statement on Thursday, though the death toll remains unverified.
Columbia's Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez acknowledged the ongoing conflict via social media, confirming troop deployments to safeguard local civilians. However, neither Sanchez nor the Army has disclosed specific casualty figures. Reuters has also been unable to verify the deaths independently.
The deadly skirmish involved dissident factions of FARC, one led by Nestor Gregorio Vera, known as Ivan Mordisco, and another by Alexander Diaz Mendoza, also known as Calarca Cordoba. Notably, while Diaz Mendoza's group engages in peace talks with the government, Vera's maintains its stance after a bilateral ceasefire was suspended in 2024.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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