Colombia: Violence displaces at least 800 people in Bajo Cauca Feb. 18

Event

On Sunday, February 18, UN officials warned that violence by paramilitary crime organizations in the Bajo Cauca region (Antioquia department) had recently displaced at least 822 people since January 19. According to reports, the most affected area is the Cáceres municipality. In addition, UN officials warned of a 255 percent increase in recorded homicide rates in Bajo Cauca since February 2017.

Further violence by paramilitary crime organizations is likely in the Bajo Cauca region in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Paramilitary crime organizations (BACRIM) such as the Clan del Golfo - also known as Los Urabeños and the Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia (AGC) - have replaced leftist guerrillas as the most serious armed threat in Colombia today. These groups are involved in a variety of illicit activities (drug trafficking, smuggling, illegal mining, extortion) and have begun expanding into territories vacated by the now officially demobilized FARC guerrilla group, leading to a rise in violence, including turf warfare and assassinations of local landowners and community leaders. The Clan del Golfo is estimated to have some 1500-1800 fighters in its ranks.

Advice

Individuals in Antioquia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for potential criminal and militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.

Due to the presence of several armed groups - including organized crime groups, drug cartels, right-wing militias, and local gangs in addition to the ELN - some Western governments advise against travel to various parts of the country.