Colombia: Military deploying to southern Choco Department in response to armed conflict between ABC and ELN as of Sept. 14

Event

The Colombian military is deploying in response to widespread armed violence between the Gaitanist Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia, AGC, Clan del Golfo, Los Urabenos, Clan Usaga) and the National Liberation Army (Ejercito del Liberacion Nacional, ELN) in southern Choco Department as of late Sept. 14. The conflict has centered on the community of San Miguel in Medio San Juan, where armed clashes first began at approximately 17:00 Sept. 12. Over 1,000 civilians have since fled the area. The Colombian military claims the control of drug-trafficking routes prompted the conflict between these groups. The army is conducting security sweeps and demining operations to secure the area. There have been no initial reports of casualties.

A heightened military presence is almost certain in southern Choco Department in the coming weeks. Additional clashes are likely between ELN and ATG and the Colombian army. Disruptions to transit and business operations are probable. Officials could impose curfews, roadblocks, and movement restrictions.

San Miguel is approximately 104 km (65 miles) north of Buenaventura.

Context

AGC and ELN are both paramilitary groups with an entrenched presence in the far north of Colombia; both depend heavily on the production and distribution of cocaine for their funding. This outbreak of violence is occurring in the early weeks of the presidency of Gustavo Petro, who came to office on a platform of pursuing de-escalation and peace with the AGC and ELN.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to southern Choco Department until the situation stabilizes. Avoid all military installations, administrative buildings, and strategic infrastructure that may be targeted in attacks. Liaise with trusted contacts.

Avoid areas of apparent military or paramilitary activity or concentrations of security personnel. Immediately depart the area if violence occurs; take shelter in a secure building, away from outer walls. Confirm routes, road access conditions, and destination security before conducting ground movements and when planning freight shipments. If travelling overland, do so in convoy and allow additional time to reach destinations due to potential roadblocks. Obtain satellite phones for emergency use. Register and maintain contact with diplomatic missions.