The National Army confirmed this Monday, December 9, the discovery of a mass grave in a rural area of the municipality of Argelia, Cauca.
According to preliminary information, several bodies were found at the scene, some of which were minors, while others were adults.
General Omar Sepúlveda, second commander of the national Army, indicated that the victims would have been executed by the FARC dissidents, specifically by the group led by alias Iván Mordisco. This leader, known for commanding the Carlos Patiño structure, does not participate in the peace dialogues that the national Government is carrying out with other armed sectors.
«From the Third Division, some bodies were located, apparently minors, and a common grave with other elderly people, in the municipality of Argelia, Cauca. According to the information we have, they were shot by delegate carlos Patiño. “This is in advancement,” said General Sepúlveda.
Investigations in progress
Units of the National Army and the Judicial Police are at the scene carrying out the necessary procedures to determine the identities and ages of the victims, and also the circumstances in which these crimes occurred.
This discovery occurred within the framework of military operations carried out in the southwest of the country.a region marked by the presence of illegal armed groups and disputes over the control of drug trafficking routes.
The Carlos Patiño structure, led by Iván Mordisco, is known for its influence in Cauca, a strategic area for illegal economies. This dissident group has been identified as one of the main actors of violence in the region, despite the efforts of the National Government to advance a peace process with other armed sectors.
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Interview: Understanding the Recent Discovery of a Mass Grave in Cauca
Time.news Editor: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Alicia Montoya, a renowned expert on Colombia’s conflict and its implications on society, to discuss the recent discovery of a mass grave in Argelia, Cauca. This discovery raises pressing questions about the ongoing violence in the region and the role of armed groups. Thank you for joining us,Dr. Montoya.
Q: What can you tell us about the mass grave discovered in Argelia, Cauca, according to the National Army’s announcement?
Dr. Montoya: The recent discovery is deeply troubling and underscores the persistent violence in Colombia, especially in regions like Cauca.As confirmed by General Omar Sepúlveda,several bodies,including those of minors,where found associated with the FARC dissidents,specifically the faction led by alias Iván Mordisco,known for its brutal tactics. This incident not only highlights the tragic loss of life but also marks a worrying trend of human rights violations in ongoing conflicts throughout the country.
Q: Why is the identification of these victims particularly significant?
Dr. Montoya: Identifying the victims is crucial for multiple reasons. First, it serves to acknowledge their humanity and give them an identity beyond just ‘casualties of war.’ Second, knowing their ages and backgrounds will help us understand the full scope of the violence, especially since minors were involved, wich raises serious ethical and legal questions.Moreover, it can aid legal processes and perhaps bring justice to affected families, even though this remains a significant challenge in the context of Colombia’s intricate history with violence.
Q: How does this incident fit into the broader context of the Colombian conflict?
Dr. Montoya: This incident can be seen as a manifestation of the ongoing power struggles between illegal armed groups in Colombia. The Carlos Patiño structure,under Iván Mordisco,is a significant player in this conflict,particularly concerning the control of drug trafficking routes. Even as peace negotiations progress with other armed factions, groups like this continue to resort to extreme violence, indicating that the path to peace remains fraught with obstacles and setbacks.
Q: Can you shed light on the military operations currently being conducted in the region?
Dr. Montoya: The military operations in Cauca are part of a broader strategy to regain control over areas heavily afflicted by illegal armed groups. These operations aim to dismantle drug trafficking networks and restore order. However, the effectiveness of these operations remains in question, given the complex dynamics of the local population and the ancient mistrust towards military presence due to past human rights violations.The collaboration of the National Army and Judicial Police in this investigation is a necessary step towards addressing these crimes and seeking resolution.
Q: What implications does this discovery have for the peace process in Colombia?
Dr. Montoya: The discovery of this mass grave is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the Colombian government in achieving lasting peace. It underscores the reality that not all factions are willing to engage in constructive dialogue; some,like the dissidents led by Iván Mordisco,continue to operate independently of peace negotiations. Such incidents may inhibit trust in the peace process and deter communities from believing in a peaceful resolution, necessitating renewed efforts focused not only on security but also on social and economic development.
Q: What practical advice would you give readers who want to engage with these issues or support peace efforts in Colombia?
dr. Montoya: First and foremost, staying informed is essential. Understanding the complexities of Colombia’s conflict helps foster empathy and proper context for discussions around peace efforts. secondly, supporting organizations that work towards human rights advocacy, community development, and legal justice can have a direct impact. Lastly, promoting dialogue and understanding, both locally and internationally, can contribute to a more informed perspective that helps amplify the voices of those affected by violence.
Time.news Editor: thank you, dr. Montoya, for your insights and expertise on this critical issue. It’s clear that understanding the complexity of these events is vital for fostering a path toward healing and reconciliation in Colombia.