UN 'concerned' about neo-paramilitary violence

[Judi Lynn]

UN 'concerned' about neo-paramilitary violence
Monday, 17 January 2011 17:05 Jim Glade

The United Nations and NGO Consultancy for Human Rights and Displacement (CODHES) expressed Monday their concern for the high level of neo-paramilitary violence in Colombia, specifically in the northern department of Cordoba.

The UN delegate for the High Commissioner of Human Rights warns that these so-called Emerging Criminal Groups (BACRIM) are a direct result of the disintegration of the United Self Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC). The delegate also urged the authorities and the national government to further ensure the safety of human rights defenders and the general public, reports Terra.com

Violence between neo-paramilitary groups and drug gangs is impacting Colombia's civilian population, primarily in the north of the country where several neo-paramilitary groups are active and drug gang Los Rastrojos is gaining ground.

According to Codhes, 600 people were killed in Cordoba in 2010, along with another 45 so far this year. Police officials affirm only 28 killings in Cordoba this year. International attention was placed on Cordoba after the January 10 massacre of two biology students from Bogota near a beach in the department.

More:
http://colombiareports.com/colombia-news/news/13763-un-concerned-about-neo-paramilitary-violence.html