2024-08-17 23:41:37
The Attorney General’s Office has issued a serious warning about the critical security situation facing the department of Cauca, attributing the growing instability to violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) committed by several illegal armed groups, including the ELN, the Central General Staff, the Second Marquetalia and the Yair Bermúdez Front.
These groups, in their struggle for control of territory and illegal profits, have subjected the civilian population to a constant state of danger.
A recent report, prepared by the Delegate for the Defense of Human Rights, revealed that in the first half of 2024, 123 disturbances of public order were recorded in Caucawhich represents an alarming average of five incidents per week. Of these, 51 were attacks directed against the civilian population, 33 clashes with the army, 31 attacks on military and police units, and eight clashes between the same armed groups. The report also highlights that the data could be underestimated due to possible underreporting.
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Among the most worrying episodes, the threats directed at 28% of the department’s officials, the recruitment of minors to transport explosives and the use of drones loaded with explosives that have seriously affected the civilian population stand out. The municipalities most affected by this violence are Argelia, with 19 events, Cajibío with 12, Santander de Quilichao with 11, and Toribío and Suárez with 10 each.
The document also denounces the expansion of criminal structures such as the “Dagoberto Ramos”, which now has a presence in 31% of the department.In addition, a 14% increase in threats was reported in the region during the first half of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. Likewise, social control practices such as curfews imposed on communities and the mandatory use of ID cards persist.
The Attorney General’s Office stressed that the crisis has worsened due to the National Government’s inability to effectively prevent and contain it. attacks, armed incursions and attacks on civilians. The breaches of the ceasefire by illegal groups were not properly verified or reported, which has contributed to the escalation of violence.
Finally, the Public Prosecutor’s Office has recommended the implementation of urgent and extraordinary actions to mitigate the situation of risk and vulnerability of the communities. The suggested measures include the acquisition of advanced technology to neutralize drones used by illegal groups, the prevention of the recruitment of minors, the protection of social leaders and the requirement that armed groups guarantee respect for the life and integrity of people in accordance with the law and International Humanitarian Law.
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