In compliance with the strategic objectives of protecting the inhabitants and strengthening governance, troops of the Mechanized Cavalry Group N.° 5 Maza carried out stability operations, accompanying officials of the Land Restitution Unit, who were carrying out land characterization tasks in favor of victims in the San Gerardo sector, rural area of Cúcuta, Department of Norte de Santander.
During this mission, the troops were attacked by members of the Carlos Germán Velasco Villamizar Urban Front, belonging to the organized armed group ELN, which generated a combat. In the operation, one member of this structure died, while another demobilized voluntarily. In addition, it was possible to recover a handgun and communication equipment.
Colombian National Army categorically rejects this attack against the personnel of the Land Restitution Unit, as it constitutes a serious violation of human rights and attacks the efforts of the State and civil society to work for the comprehensive reparation of the victims, the safe return to their territories and the consolidation of regional development.
The authorities are carrying out the corresponding judicial procedures and the individual who voluntarily surrendered, along with the material found, has been put into custody of the authority.
Source: Press – National Army
