In a recent operation, the Colombian Army has successfully rescued three minors who were deceitfully recruited by the Second Marquetalia, shedding light on the persistent violation of international humanitarian law by armed groups operating outside legal bounds.
Soldiers from the 24th Infantry Battalion and the 22nd Services Battalion of the National Army collaborated to deploy institutional resources and specialized capabilities, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the affected minors.
The operation, conducted in the rural area of Puerto Lleras, Meta department, uncovered three minors living in precarious conditions. They had fallen victim to false promises of employment on farms, ultimately being coerced into joining the ranks of the criminal group led by alias Tomás Villa or Buitre. Alias Jhon 40, the leader of a commission within the Second Marquetalia, played a role in their indoctrination through radio broadcasts.
The recovered minors originally hailed from municipalities such as Mapiripán and Puerto Rico in Meta, as well as various districts including Casibare, La Lindosa, Puerto Cachama, Las Cristalinas, Alto del Tigre, Guacamayas, Casa Verde, El Pororio, and Tierra Grata.
Living under constant death threats to deter them from escaping, the children were successfully rescued during the military operation. They were immediately transferred to the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF), where they are now under its custody, receiving essential medical care and psychological support to facilitate the restoration of their fundamental rights.
This successful humanitarian intervention underscores the National Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating illegal practices, such as forced recruitment. Ongoing collaboration with civilian authorities, human rights organizations, and society at large is crucial to preventing and addressing similar situations in the future.