Key Takeaways:

• The death toll from rebel violence in Colombia's Catatumbo region has surged to 60.
• The violence involves conflicts between the ELN and a faction of the now-demobilized FARC.
• Hundreds have been displaced, and many locals face risks of kidnapping or violence.
• President Gustavo Petro has accused the ELN of war crimes and suspended peace negotiations.
• The situation highlights the ongoing issues surrounding drug trafficking in the region.

In a tragic escalation of violence, the death toll related to rebel conflicts in Colombia's Catatumbo region has risen to 60, according to the country's human rights ombudsman. The violence primarily involves the National Liberation Army (ELN) and a faction of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which has been in peace negotiations with the government. Recent reports indicate that 32 individuals were kidnapped and hundreds displaced due to the ongoing conflict, revealing a deepening crisis in a region notorious for its strategic role in cocaine trafficking due to its proximity to Venezuela, as confirmed by BBC.

President Gustavo Petro publicly condemned the violence and accused the ELN of committing war crimes during these attacks, prompting him to suspend peace talks with the group. In a counter-response, the ELN claimed that they were initiated by the FARC, specifically citing an instance where civilians were killed, a claim that the FARC faction has yet to address publicly.

The Ombudsman emphasized that many community leaders and their families are at significant risk of kidnapping or worse. In this regard, the office noted that 20 recent kidnappings included at least ten women, igniting fears of increasing violence in the area. Local organizations, including the Association of Mothers of Catatumbo for Peace, expressed that "Catatumbo is once again stained with blood" as violence continues to disrupt families and community cohesion.

Moreover, reports are emerging of food shortages in affected areas, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The Ombudsman has called for armed groups to cease hostilities and allow humanitarian aid into impacted communities. The Colombian army has also announced the deployment of additional troops to aid in stabilizing the region to restore peace, as stated by Reuters.

This disturbing escalation in Colombia demonstrates the ongoing struggles the nation faces after decades of internal conflict, with at least 450,000 people killed over six decades, reminding us of the urgent need for sustained peace efforts in the region.