A recent military operation in southeastern Colombia has left at least 20 people dead, including seven minors, prompting international outcry and renewed questions about the country’s ongoing armed conflict. The November 11 operation, targeting a splinter group of the former FARC rebel institution led by “Iván mordisco,” occurred in the Guaviare department, a region long impacted by illicit armed groups [[1]]. The incident has drawn criticism toward President Gustavo Petro’s administration, and underscores the enduring challenges of protecting civilians, notably children, amidst persistent violence [[2]].
A military operation in southeastern Colombia on November 11 left at least 20 people dead, including seven minors, sparking international concern and scrutiny of the government’s handling of armed conflict.
The operation, targeting a faction of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) led by a figure known as “Iván Mordisco,” took place in the San Lucas area near Calamar, in the Guaviare department, according to reports from the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences.
Authorities have identified 16 of the deceased, with another four identified through dental records. The forensic institute confirmed the deaths included 13 men and seven women.
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the incident, particularly regarding the recruitment of children by armed groups. “With profound concern we received confirmation from the Office of the Ombudsman and the Legal Medicine Institute of the death of three boys and four girls during hostilities against a legitimate military target, in Guaviare,” the UN stated. “The seven deceased children are victims of recruitment by an illegal armed group.”
The operation has drawn criticism toward the government of President Gustavo Petro, who previously condemned similar actions by prior administrations.
A suspect allegedly involved in the killings has issued a statement vowing to pursue legal action against those responsible, stating, “We will judiciously evaluate revolutionary trials against those materially and intellectually responsible for the murder of children.” He also suggested that government officials who promote war and military action could also face prosecution.
The individual, who is the subject of a substantial reward offered by authorities, made the comments in a video statement. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges Colombia faces in addressing armed conflict and protecting vulnerable populations.
