Choco in Crisis: Civilian Exodus Amidst Escalating Violence

In northwestern Colombia's Choco department, fighting between rebels and criminal groups has caused a mass displacement of residents. The National Liberation Army's armed strike has intensified violence and halted peace talks, leaving communities in despair. Thousands have fled their homes, and land mines hinder access to farmlands.

In Condoto, located in Colombia's northwestern region of Choco, over a hundred residents gathered to urge government intervention as escalating violence between rebel and criminal factions has uprooted thousands from their homes.

The recent surge in hostilities follows an 'armed strike' declared by the National Liberation Army (ELN) on February 18, which threatened severe repercussions for those venturing outdoors. As violence grows, civilian casualties mount, and humanitarian conditions deteriorate.

President Gustavo Petro responded by halting peace negotiations with the ELN, a key initiative to quash a six-decade-long internal conflict. As armed groups battle for control over this strategically important region, land mines impede farmers from their fields, further compounding the crisis.