A recent violent clash in the Amazon region of Colombia has resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals, according to sources from the military. The confrontation occurred between two rival leftist rebel factions that emerged as splinter groups from the once-dominant FARC guerrilla army, which transitioned to a political entity following a peace agreement with the Colombian government in 2016 after decades of conflict.
The intense fighting unfolded in the Guaviare region, where both factions are vying for control over lucrative drug trafficking routes, illegal mining operations, and extortion rackets. The two groups involved in the firefight are led by Ivan Mordisco, identified as Colombia’s most wanted fugitive, and a leader known by the codename Calarca.
Preliminary reports indicate the death toll might rise, as the military suggested that the situation continues to evolve. A video shared by the army revealed over 20 bodies dressed in combat gear lying on a dirt road, underscoring the brutality of the encounter.
Mordisco previously engaged in peace talks with the government under President Gustavo Petro but opted out of negotiations in 2024, subsequently intensifying attacks against both civilians and security personnel. Meanwhile, Calarca’s faction has intermittently pursued dialogue with the government. As the political climate intensifies with elections looming in four months, Petro faces mounting criticism from the opposition, which accuses him of a lax approach towards these armed groups.
In a notable escalation of military engagement, government forces conducted a significant operation last November that resulted in the deaths of 19 of Mordisco’s followers. President Petro has drawn parallels between Mordisco’s evasion strategies and those of Pablo Escobar, the infamous cocaine kingpin.
The dynamics between Colombia and the United States have also grown tense, particularly regarding Venezuela. Recently, Petro and U.S. President Donald Trump exchanged strong words after Trump suggested he might take military action against Petro following his ouster of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. However, in a more recent communication, the two leaders agreed to collaborate in combating drug trafficking, an area where Colombia holds the distinction of being the world’s largest cocaine producer.
