Armed men lurking in Santa Marta

CPT Colombia shares the following information about the current grave human rights situation in Northeast Antioquia. CPT is accompanying CAHUCOPANA in their struggle for justice. If you are interested in learning more about their great work please participate in the next delegation (July 14^th to 26^th) . Click here for more information.

Men identified as belonging to the paramilitary group “Black Eagles” lurking in the village of Santa Marta

On Sunday May 29th, the Corporation for Humanitarian Action Coexistence and Peace in Northeast Antioquia (CAHUCOPANA), was alerted by the community of the presence of armed men in the village of Santa Marta, Remedios, Northeast Antioquia, on Saturday May 28. It has been established that these six people identify themselves as members of the paramilitary group “Aguilas Negras” (Black Eagles), they carried rifles, and wore dark clothing.

The community also reported that while in the region this group was accompanied by a guerilla deserter with the alias “Jair,” asked for “Lata”, “Colacho”, “Nando” and “Darius” which are cultural nicknames for peasants living in the region. It should be clarified that Darius is now deceased.

We reiterate that troops from the National Army are still stationed in the Puna village in same municipality.

These events represent an early warning sign for farmers in the Northeast region of Antioquia of the grave situation, who fear for their lives and personal integrity, are facing.

We call on national and international organizations, human rights defenders, and unions in act in solidarity with this community. We ask of the authorities:

1. That the armed forces in the region protect the life and integrity of the inhabitants in these villages, demanding that the armed actors comply and respect the human rights of people that live in the area.

2. Push forward the necessary measures to guarantee the right to life, freedom of movement, personal integrity to the people living in the area, members of grassroots organizations, and their leaders.