At least 50 people have been killed in a violent confrontation between rival FARC dissident factions in Colombia’s San José del Guaviare region, prompting a significant military deployment to restore order.
Historical Context of FARC Dissidence
The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) originated in 1964 as a Marxist insurgent group aiming to seize power, largely funded by cocaine trafficking. Over time, internal fractures emerged regarding peace negotiations, leading to a split between factions led by Iván Mordisco and Calarca Córdoba, who were previously aligned.
Conflict Over Criminal Control
According to Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Arnulfo Sánchez, the latest clashes in the San José del Guaviare municipality were triggered by disputes over drug trafficking, extortion, and other illicit activities. Córdoba’s faction claims 250 fighters loyal to Mordisco ambushed their column, forcing them into a three-hour defensive battle that resulted in 50 deaths.
While the militants claimed the fighting lasted three hours, government authorities estimated the skirmish spanned 48 hours. The death toll reportedly includes members of the illegal groups, with potential involvement of minors.
Military Intervention and Election Security
Defense Minister Sánchez confirmed that troops have been deployed into the jungle to protect civilians and dismantle criminal structures. The military is currently reinforcing the Plan Democracia to secure the region and identify those responsible for the violence.
The government aims to ensure the stability of the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for May 31. Military officials stated that they will maintain territorial control and troop presence across 47 polling stations to guarantee security and peace throughout the department.
