OVER the weekend, violence in Colombia’s northeast left more than 80 people dead following the government’s unsuccessful attempts to negotiate peace with the National Liberation Army (ELN), officials reported.
At least 20 others were injured in the attacks, which have led to the displacement of thousands, with many fleeing to temporary shelters.
The violence mainly occurred in the Catatumbo region, near the border with Venezuela, where the killings took place.
Among the victims were community leader Carmelo Guerrero and several individuals involved in peace talks. At least three people linked to the peace negotiations were reported kidnapped.
Governor William Villamizar of North Santander confirmed the deaths and stated that the army was urgently evacuating civilians. Meanwhile, many displaced people sought refuge in nearby mountains or government shelters.
Juan Gutiérrez, a displaced resident, described the harrowing escape with his family, leaving behind their belongings and animals in the rush to safety.
The Colombian military rescued dozens of evacuees, including a family and their dog, through helicopter operations.
Defense Minister Iván Velásquez traveled to the region to oversee security operations, emphasizing that saving lives and securing communities was the priority.
The government has also dispatched aid, including food and hygiene kits, to those fleeing the violence.
The violence follows the suspension of peace talks with the ELN, marking the second such pause within a year. The Colombian government has called for a halt to ELN attacks and requested access to the region for humanitarian aid.
The ELN has been clashing with former members of the disbanded FARC guerrilla group, fighting for control over the strategic border region, which is home to coca leaf plantations.
The ELN issued a warning to former FARC members, citing armed confrontation as the only remaining option.
Local officials have urged for renewed negotiations to prevent further suffering among civilians caught in the conflict, while the government continues to reinforce humanitarian corridors to provide safe passage for those fleeing.