Colombia: 57 Soldiers Kidnapped by Civilians in Conflict Zone

BOGOTÁ: Colombia’s army has announced that 57 soldiers were kidnapped by local civilians in the southwestern mountainous region of the country, reportedly under pressure from dissident factions of the former FARC guerrilla group.

According to military officials, the incident took place near El Plateado, in the Cauca region, an area known as one of the country’s key cocaine-producing zones. The region remains highly volatile, with ongoing clashes and tension.

This kidnapping highlights the escalating violence in Colombia’s internal conflict, particularly in regions where drug trafficking and illegal armed groups are active.

Dissident FARC groups, who did not accept the 2016 peace deal, have reportedly strengthened their control in these areas. As a result, both civilians and security forces are facing severe challenges.