Terrorism in Colombia

Terrorism in Colombia has occurred repeatedly during the last several decades, largely due to the ongoing armed conflict the country has been involved in since 1964. Perpetrators of terrorist acts in the country range from leftist guerilla forces including FARC, ELN and M-19, to drug cartels such as the Medellín Cartel, to right-wing paramilitary forces including the AUC.

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Response to terrorism

Terror groups

Notable groups involved in terror attacks include:

Counterterrorism efforts

During the early 21st century, the number of known and suspected terrorists killed, captured, or surrendered fell as terror groups changed their tactics, while casualties rose. The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) reverted to hit-and-run attacks rather than engage in large unit encounters.[1]

In November, 2011, security forces killed FARC leader Guillermo León Sáenz Vargas, also known as "Alfonso Cano."[1]

Demobilization and reintegration efforts

Colombia has employed a multi-agency approach to countering radicalization and discouraging violent extremism. The government's program focuses on encouraging individual members units of the FARC and ELN to demobilize and reintegrate into society. Demobilization and reintegration programs provide medical care, psychological counseling, education benefits, and job placement assistance. Recidivism rates were estimated at between 10 and 20 percent by the Colombian Agency for Reintegration. Additionally, the Ministry of Defense has organized a number of public festivals and social events with celebrity participation to discourage the recruitment of vulnerable youth.[2]

In 2013, a total of 1,350 FARC and ELN members had demobilized.[2]

Attacks

2011
  • February 11, 2011 – Five civilians were killed in San Miguel, Putumayo in a mortar attack. The mortar was fired by suspected FARC terrorists and landed near a police post along with a baby.[1]
  • June 25, 2011 – Suspected ELN rebels attacked a police outpost in Colon Genova, Narino, using explosives and small-arms fire. Eight civilians were killed.[1]
  • September 18, 2011 – Several mortars were launched at an army base in La Macarena, Meta Department. The attack injured several civilians.[1]
  • October 30, 2011 – The armored convoy of Albeiro Vanegas, Vice President of the House of Representatives was attacked by suspected ELN terrorists. Vanegas was unharmed, but his driver was killed.[1]

2017

2018

2019

See also

References
  1. "Chapter 2: Country Reports, Western Hemisphere Review. 2011 Incidents." US State Department. Accessed January 30, 2015.
  2. "2013 Report." State Department. Accessed February 11, 2015.
  3. "Shopping Center Blast in Colombia Kills 3 and Injures 9". The New York Times. 18 June 2017.
  4. Daniels, Joe Parkin (28 January 2018). "Colombia Police Station Bombings Kill 7 Officers". The New York Times.
  5. Vyas, Kejal (22 January 2019). "Colombian Rebel Group Claims Responsibility for Police Bombing". Wall Street Journal.
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