The National Army has denounced the kidnapping of 60 soldiers belonging to the Cauca Specific Command, while they were carrying out security operations in the Micay Canyon region.
The event occurred in the rural area of El Filo, between the municipalities of Argelia and El Tambo, where about 250 residents held back the troops.
According to the statement issued by the Army, the soldiers were carrying out security and stability activities as part of Operation Perseus, whose objective is to reestablish territorial control in a region historically affected by the presence of illegal armed groups.
“We denounce that 60 of our soldiers have been kidnapped by nearly 250 residents while carrying out operations within the framework of Operation Perseus,” the institution indicated.
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Security and Human Rights Risks
The Army expressed its concern about the risk that this situation represents both for the soldiers and for the residents of the region themselves. «This situation hinders the fulfillment of the mission against illegal armed groups that commit crimes in the area and endangers the integrity of our men.«says the statement.
In an effort to avoid any confrontation and ensure respect for Human Rights, The soldiers remain in place without using force, seeking a peaceful solution to the kidnapping.
Context of tension in the region
For several days, a large military contingent, sent by order of President Gustavo Petro, has been deployed in the sector with the aim of recovering territorial control that was in the hands of FARC dissidents. However, the presence of the troops has generated discomfort in some sectors of the local population, who have expressed their preference for the withdrawal of the Army from the area.
The Army has reiterated that its mission is to guarantee security and stability in a region that has been hit hard by violence. Military authorities are in dialogue with community leaders and local organizations, seeking solutions that prevent an escalation of the conflict and ensure the release of the soldiers.
For the moment, the national government and the military high command continue to closely monitor the situation.while awaiting a prompt resolution that allows the safe return of the detained troops.
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