Government Considers Suspending Ceasefire in Guaviare
Defense Minister Iván Velásquez issued a warning on August 12th amidst escalating tension in San José del Guaviare. If the 60 soldiers still held hostage are not released, the ceasefire maintained by the government with the dissidents of the FARC, led by alias Calarcá, will be suspended.
Velásquez emphasized on social media that the current situation compels them to reconsider the bilateral ceasefire with the Jorge Suárez Briceño bloc. This truce, which was recently extended for three months and is valid until October 15th, could be revoked if the armed group fails to demonstrate a genuine commitment to releasing the uniformed men.
The kidnapping, which has sparked significant political concern, jeopardizes the implementation of President Gustavo Petro’s Total Peace policy. The detention of the soldiers, who were on a mission in response to community calls, has been attributed to Alexis Guerra, alias Cantarino, a member of the Jorge Suárez Briceño structure.
The Minister highlighted that of the 98 soldiers kidnapped in Guaviare, 60 remain in captivity, leading him to question the sustainability of the truce with the dissidents.
The Military Forces confirmed the kidnapping and reported the incident to the Attorney General’s Office, expressing concern over the violation of human rights. The kidnappers have reportedly demanded the presence of the San José del Guaviare mayor, along with delegates from various organizations, as a condition for releasing a group of soldiers.