TERRORIST
GROUP
PROFILES
MILNET
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Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)
From: Patterns of Global Terrorism. United States Department of State Publication 10321
Description
Established in 1966 as military wing of Colombian Communist Party. Goal is
to overthrow government and ruling class. Organized along military lines;
includes at least one urban front.
Activities
Armed attacks against Colombian political and military targets. Many
members have become criminals, carrying out kidnappings for profit and bank
robberies. Foreign citizens often are targets of FARC kidnappings. Group
traffics in drugs and has well documented ties to narcotraffickers.
In 2007, some 1,500+ members were known to have "deserted"
and the trend is continuing in 2008, leading some to believe the group
is about to self destruct. Analysts believe the group is
suffering from an influx of U.S. funds and pressure which is enabling
the government to pursue FARC with added emphasis.
In 2008, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez publicly lent his support to
the group when the Columbian military forces pursued members into
Ecuador creating a crisis between Ecuador and Colombia.
Strength
Approximately 4,500 to 5,500 armed combatants and an unknown number of
supporters, mostly in rural areas.
Location/Area of Operation
Colombia and neighboring countries
External Aid
None.
Created: 04/02/95
Last Updated: 02/04/97
Page Maintained by George Goncalves - ggoncalves@nps.navy.mil