BOGOTÁ: The Colombian military on Tuesday liberated 39 people who had earlier been kidnapped by the country's largest active guerrilla group, an official said.

The National Liberation Army (ELN) had captured the people -- including a minor -- on a highway in the remote Choco region where the armed group has a strong presence.

"Our 39 compatriots have regained their freedom," General Hugo Lopez posted on X, adding that two soldiers had been killed in the operation to save them.

A military source earlier told AFP on condition of anonymity that all those kidnapped were civilians traveling by bus.

The ELN, the oldest surviving guerrilla group in the Americas, funds itself through drug trafficking and other illegal activities. It exerts control over residents of Choco, which lies on the Pacific coast of Colombia bordering Panama, and often clashes with security forces.

The government of outgoing leftist President Gustavo Petro unsuccessfully attempted to negotiate peace with the ELN after he came to power in 2022.

Illegal armed groups have grown stronger in Colombia over the past four years, according to experts, and kidnapping by drug traffickers is commonplace.

Far-right president-elect Abelardo de la Espriella will take office on August 7 and has promised to toughen security and bomb insurgents.

Articles tagged with "guerrilla group"

Colombian military frees 39 people kidnapped by guerrillas

Colombian military frees 39 people kidnapped by guerrillas