07 Aug 2017 | 02:13 AM UTC
Colombia: Ex-FARC dissidents reportedly take control of trafficking corridors
Media sources report ex-FARC members are forming new crime networks as the group prepares to become a political party
Event
Ex-FARC dissidents are reportedly attempting to take control of lucrative trafficking corridors in Colombia, just one month before FARC officially completes the transitional demobilization process and transforms into a political party on September 1. According to recent media reports, dissident activity from breakaway factions of FARC is occurring in the central and eastern areas of Meta, Caqueta, and Guaviare departments, and involve the trafficking of cocaine and marijuana, along with the development of extortion networks. In the first half of 2017, the South Naval Force of the Colombian Navy has seized over four tons of marijuana from ex-FARC dissidents in Caqueta, Putumayo, Amazonas, and Guaviare departments. While the ex-FARC dissident cells remain small and decentralized, with the largest likely not constituting much more than 100 members, it is likely that the spread of cells will continue.
Context
A revised peace deal between the FARC and the Colombian government was ratified by the Colombian congress on November 30, 2016, after being signed on November 24, and submitted to the lower house by President Juan Manuel Santos on November 29. Despite vocal opposition, led primarily by former President Álvaro Uribe, the lower house ratified the pact a day after it was endorsed by the senate. The deal aims to end an armed conflict that has killed more than 260,000 people over five decades.
Members of the FARC officially surrendered their remaining weapons to the United Nations Mission in Colombia during a ceremony on June 27. The event took place in the town of Mesetas and was attended by President Santos. The completion of the disarmament process is seen as a major step in securing long-term peace.
Advice
Individuals in Colombia are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to avoid any protests (e.g. demonstrations related to the FAC demobilization process).
Due to the presence of various armed groups, including narcotrafficking, organized crime, and left-wing guerrilla groups, many Western governments advise against travel to various regions of the country ‒ particularly rural zones ‒ with the notable exceptions of the northern Caribbean regions and central areas (including Bogotá).
