Colombia’s EMC rebel group has declared that they will cease kidnapping people for ransom, a move that is seen as a significant development in the ongoing peace talks between the rebel group and the government. The EMC, an offshoot of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), consists of rebels who did not lay down their arms after the Farc signed a peace deal in 2016. While this announcement is a positive step forward, it is important to remain cautious as other criminal and rebel groups in Colombia continue to engage in the practice of abduction for financial gain.
Ransom kidnappings have been a growing concern in Colombia, with a notable recent case being the abduction and subsequent release of the father of Liverpool footballer Luis Díaz. This incident shed light on the prevalence of the practice and the various groups involved in raising funds through kidnappings.
The announcement by the EMC is a significant victory for President Gustavo Petro, who has expressed his commitment to achieving “total peace” in Colombia. However, it is important to note that the National Liberation Army (ELN), another rebel group responsible for the kidnapping of Luis Díaz’s parents, has not signaled any intention to halt their abductions for ransom. According to the Ombudsman’s office, there are still 91 individuals being held hostage across the country.
The number of people kidnapped in Colombia during the first 10 months of this year has reached its highest level since the 2016 peace deal with the Farc, according to a report by the Foundation for Peace and Reconciliation. This indicates that despite progress with the EMC, the issue of kidnapping for ransom remains pervasive.
The EMC, officially known as Estado Mayor Central (Central General Command), is the largest dissident rebel group formed after the 2016 peace agreement. It boasts an estimated membership of 3,000 individuals and is particularly active in the provinces of Caquetá, Guaviare, Meta, and Putumayo.
The peace negotiations with the EMC have faced challenges and setbacks. In May, President Petro suspended the ceasefire with the rebel group following the killing of four indigenous teenagers who attempted to escape after being forcibly recruited. Last month, the discussions between the two sides finally resumed.
While the decision of the EMC to end kidnappings for ransom represents progress, it is crucial to remain vigilant as other outlawed groups in Colombia continue to carry out such activities. Efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the country must involve not just one rebel group but all factions willing to engage in dialogue and put an end to violence. The issue of kidnapping for ransom requires sustained attention and action to protect the rights and safety of individuals across Colombia.
