Colombia: Armed group likely to maintain attacks in northern and western departments through mid-May, following 'armed strike' /update 1

Event

The Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia, AGC), also known as the Gulf Clan (Clan del Golfo), is likely to continue attacking the civilian population, clashing with police and the military, and carry out acts of violence in multiple northern and western departments through at least mid-May, following their calls for an "armed strike", which reportedly ended May 9. The actions came in response to the recent extradition of Dairo Antonio Usuga David (alias Otoniel), one of the group's top leaders, to the US. AGC operations are most likely to continue affecting parts of the Antioquia, Cordoba, Sucre, and Bolivar departments, although authorities reported that more than 140 municipalities were affected in the aforementioned departments as well as Choco, Magdalena, Atlantico, Norte de Santander, La Guajira, and Cesar.

As part of the armed strike, which started late May 4, authorities reported the AGC killed two soldiers, one police officer, and three civilians and affected or destroyed 187 vehicles, four roads, and eight transport stations. Officials indicated more than 80,000 residents in the Uraba region of Antioquia do not have access to natural gas. More than 180 people have been arrested by authorities.

Colombian security forces will continue to implement heightened security measures along major thoroughfares in northwestern Colombia, as well as in some urban and rural areas in threatened departments.

Business operations and travel on regional routes will likely continue to be affected in threatened areas during the coming days. AGC members may attempt to attack security forces as well as noncompliant individuals and businesses. Disruptions related to the armed strike are most likely to affect rural areas and small towns outside of Colombian security forces' credible radius of deterrence.

Context

According to the authorities, the AGC's violent actions have decreased since May 4. Additionally, the Catholic Bishop of the town of Apartado, Hugo Alberto Torres, announced late May 8 that the "armed strike" ended and residents should return to their normal activities. However, many residents of the most affected areas remained inside their homes and kept their businesses closed May 9.

Advice

Avoid affected areas. Confirm appointments before traveling to departments subject to the armed strike. Adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.