Story perspectives

Civilians Hang White Flags Amid Guerrilla Clash in Catatumbo

6/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Civilians in Catatumbo hang white flags outside homes to signal non-combatant status and avoid guerrilla crossfire.
Two guerrilla groups fight for Catatumbo control while police stay in sandbagged stations and patrol only in small six-person teams.
Police teams armed with rifles and masks avoid venturing deeper into the jungle.
82-year-old farmer Jose Reyes Quintero says coca cultivation fuels the bloodshed and that armed groups lack compassion for civilians.

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Story summary

Civilians in Catatumbo hang white flags outside homes to signal non-combatant status and avoid guerrilla crossfire.
Two guerrilla groups fight for Catatumbo control while police stay in sandbagged stations and patrol only in small six-person teams.
Police teams armed with rifles and masks avoid venturing deeper into the jungle.
82-year-old farmer Jose Reyes Quintero says coca cultivation fuels the bloodshed and that armed groups lack compassion for civilians.