The Colombian military Forces have initiated Operation Perseo, a military strategy aimed at recovering the village of El Plateado, in the south of the department of Cauca. More than 1400 members of the Military Forces have gone in the area with the aim of raising the comprehensive security of its inhabitants.
This operation concentrates the most advanced military resources, including aircraft, artillery, armored vehicles and surveillance and control systems. This operation is directed against illegal armed groups that have historically hit the inhabitants with multiple crimes, including forced recruitment, selective killings, kidnappings and the indiscriminate use of explosive devices. Groups, such as the Carlos Patiño and the Segunda Marquetalia, have coerced the inhabitants to maintain illicit plantations, the main source of their illegal income.
The Colombian Air Force in coordination with the National Police complement the work with human and technical components. Its operation will be fundamental to detect and hit the main routes and mobility routes of criminals, as well as their illicit activities.
The troops, largely made up of Special Forces units, have differential resources and training focused on urban areas. Its operation is governed by the principles of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights; it works for the full protection of communities.
The operation includes Comprehensive operations by the Military Forces, focused on strengthening community well-being, protecting residents and preventing crimes such as forced recruitment. These operations will be carried out through loudspeakers, distribution of brochures, seeking to consolidate a permanent bond with the inhabitants.
The Military Forces reiterate their commitment in compliance with the constitutional mission, working for the safety and well-being of the inhabitants of El Plateado. Operation Perseo seeks to counter the logistics and financing of the illegal armed groups that converge in this area of the national territory.
Source: National Army
