In a devastating event on the Pacific coast of Nariño, Colombia, the Joint Task Force for Stabilization and Consolidation Hercules faced a violent attack during stability operations. The events unfolded on the morning of January 29, 2024, in the Las Lajas hamlet, situated in the rural area of Magui Payan municipality.
Members of the residual organized armed group, specifically the central staff structure Alan Rodríguez of the FARC, targeted troops from the Joint Task Force Hercules of the Colombia army, in a regrettable combat. Tragically, Professional Soldier Vargas Morales Walter Froilen and Professional Soldier Burgos Durango Jaime Alberto, hailing from Caicedo and Turbo, Antioquia, were killed.
The clash also left two additional professional soldiers injured. They are currently in stable condition and have been evacuated from the area to receive specialized medical attention.
Amidst the unfortunate events, the military operation led to the recovery of two minors who were associated with the same criminal structure. These minors were found in possession of war material, supplies, and communication equipment, and efforts were made to restore their rights.
The incident has been reported to the Mechanism for Oversight, Monitoring, and Verification (MVMV) due to its violation of the ceasefire agreement with the organized armed group.
In response to the tragedy, a special military force has been dispatched to the area to conduct offensive operations aimed at locating and apprehending the responsible members of this criminal structure.
As the nation mourns the loss of Professional Soldiers Vargas Morales and Burgos Durango, the families and friends of the fallen soldiers are receiving support and assistance during this difficult period. The institution expresses its deepest condolences and commitment to addressing the situation with the utmost urgency.
