Colombia's military reported that 57 of its soldiers have been taken hostage by local civilians in the southwestern Micay Canyon region, a crucial area for cocaine production. The alarming incident unfolded over the weekend, with 31 soldiers kidnapped on Saturday and the remaining 26 the following day by a large group comprising over 200 people. This situation has escalated tensions amidst a prolonged conflict with various rebel groups, particularly the dissidents of the Farc.
Brigadier General Federico Alberto Mejía claimed the abduction constituted a clear case of kidnapping. Local media reports suggest that the EMC rebel group, the largest offshoot of Farc, may have orchestrated these attacks. The group has not made any official statements regarding the situation. According to General Erik Rodríguez, this incident coincided with the apprehension of a suspected EMC rebel, following which the soldiers were surrounded by a growing number of civilians.
Efforts to resolve the crisis are currently underway, focusing on the safe return of the soldiers, all held at the same location. The Micay Canyon is notorious for drug transportation routes leading to Pacific ports, making it central to illegal drug trade operations.
The Colombian military had maintained a presence in the area since October, primarily engaged in ongoing patrols to capture armed combatants. However, locals perceive their actions as a direct threat to the lucrative cocaine economy, as over 90% of the area's residents reportedly rely on coca cultivation for their livelihoods.
Under President Gustavo Petro's government, peace talks with the EMC have faltered, especially after the group's leader, Iván Mordisco, withdrew from negotiations last year, leading to further intra-group conflicts and various criminal activities, including extortion and drug trafficking.
