Colombia: At least 18 killed in armed clashes in Puerto Guzman Nov. 20

Event

At least 18 people were killed in armed clashes in Puerto Guzman, Putumayo Department, Nov. 20. The fighting occurred between the rural villages of Los Pinos and Las Delicias, located along the Caqueta River. Initial reports indicate that the clashes were between members of the Border Commandos (Comandos de Frontera) and the Carolina Ramirez Front (Frente Carolina Ramirez), both of which are dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia, FARC) that refused to demobilize as part of the FARC's peace agreement with the government.

Heavily armed police and military personnel are likely to deploy to the area, and additional clashes between the armed groups are possible.

Advice

Avoid the area. Heed the instructions of security personnel.