Colombia: Gulf Clan group calls for 'armed strike' in multiple departments effective until May 9

Event

The Gulf Clan (Clan del Golfo), also known as the Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia, AGC), has reportedly launched an "armed strike" in multiple departments of Colombia that is slated to be in effect until May 9. The move comes in response to the recent extradition of Dairo Antonio Usuga David (alias Otoniel), one of the group's top leaders, to the US. As part of the armed strike, the group has reportedly threatened merchants and transport workers in parts of Antioquia, Cordoba, and Sucre departments with violence if they engage in business or travel during the strike period; among the most threatened areas is the Bajo Cauca Antioquia region. Notably, Highway 25, connecting Medellin with the Atlantic coast, has been closed to traffic in connection with the armed strike after several vehicles were burned on the route near Puerto Valdivia, Antioquia Department, late May 4.

Colombian security forces have accordingly implemented heightened security measures in some areas, including along major thoroughfares in Antioquia, Cordoba, and Bolivar departments, as well as in some urban areas in threatened departments.

Business operations and travel on regional routes will probably be reduced, if not entirely suspended, in threatened areas during the strike period. Gulf Clan 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.

Advice

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