Colombia: Officials confirm more than 100 soldiers are being held by rural workers in Tibu, North Santander Department, as of Oct. 28

Event

As of Oct. 28, Colombian authorities have confirmed more than 100 soldiers are being held against their will by rural workers in Tibu municipality, North Santander Department, Catatumbo region. The detention, which government officials have said is a kidnapping, occurred when the soldiers were manually eradicating illicit crops in the area. More than 600 rural workers reportedly seized the soldiers to protest the eradication efforts. Reports differ about the number of soldiers being held, with most citing between 104 and 180.

The rural workers are demanding members of Colombia's Ombudsman Office travel to the area and meet with them. Minister of Defense Diego Molano has said those responsible will be prosecuted.

Clashes between security forces and the rural workers are possible if the detention continues for several days. Disruptions in the area around Tibu are highly likely, including roadblocks to control access to the area. Additional security forces are almost certain to deploy in the area.

Context

Tibu is located approximately 90 km (56 miles) northwest of Cucuta, near the border with the Venezuelan state of Zulia. The Catatumbo region remains one of the most affected in Colombia by armed clashes between security forces, guerrilla groups, and drug-trafficking organizations.

Advice

Avoid nonessential travel to the region. Strictly heed instructions from authorities.