A lethal clash occurred in Colombia’s Arauca department as factions linked to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and groups opposed to the National Liberation Army fought near Puerto Rondón. Local authorities confirmed the discovery of unidentified bodies and reported that five guerrillas were saved, including a 14-year-old girl from the area who had been recruited. The incident highlights the fragile security landscape in rural eastern Colombia, where armed actors intermittently collide and civilians carry the burden of the violence.
Humanitarian organizations, led by the International Committee of the Red Cross, announced that a large number of injured civilians were evacuated from the affected rural zone in Arauca. The effort was described as a targeted humanitarian mission aimed at saving lives amid ongoing hostilities and guaranteeing access to medical care for the most vulnerable. The ICRC underscored the need for discreet protective dialogue with all armed actors to minimize harm to civilians and to facilitate the delivery of aid.
In Arauca capital, regional security leaders held a meeting to coordinate a response with the Colombian Army and Police. The goal was to strengthen respect for human rights and protect civilians amid recurrent clashes involving organized armed groups engaging in criminal activity nationwide. Regional officials conveyed a strong commitment to upholding rights and safety, while exploring practical steps to reduce civilian exposure to violence and disruption.
Government officials acted swiftly to condemn the events in Puerto Rondón and called for armed actors to withdraw from civilian spaces. They emphasized the need for humanitarian channels to expedite the evacuation of the wounded and for coordination with national authorities to mobilize protections. Ongoing efforts to address displacement and the effects on noncombatants were highlighted, along with mobilization of available humanitarian mechanisms to support affected communities. An appeal was made to international and regional bodies to take responsibility for safeguarding civilians in this delicate humanitarian crisis.
Rodolfo Rodríguez shared sympathy for the families affected and stressed the importance of keeping civilians out of conflict zones. He urged all parties to pursue peace through dialogue and tolerance, emphasizing a basic respect for the safety and integrity of every resident. The message echoed a broader national aspiration for durable peace rooted in open communication, lawful conduct, and a steadfast commitment to human rights across Colombia.