Paramilitarism on the Rise in Venezuela
26 August 2015 - 08:43 AM
Paramilitarism on the Rise in Venezuela
The phenomenon of paramilitary groups in Venezuela is on the rise, according to the country's government. President Nicolas Maduro revealed last week that there are 30 different Colombian paramilitary groups operating inside Venezuela. Paramilitary groups have mainly developed in Colombia, but the model was “exported” throughout the region during the Cold War. Today, paramilitary groups operate in Mexico, Honduras, and more recently in Paraguay.
Venezuela, however, was relatively free from paramilitary forces – although there have been small guerrilla groups operating inside the country and land distribution issues – until 1997. In Febrary 1997, detained paramilitary groups were connected to wealthy landlords and had detailed maps of the border region of Apure. The men claimed they were hired by the Venezuelan Gen. Enrique Medina Gomez.
Carlos Castaño, the leader of Colombia’s most famous paramilitary group, the United Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC), confirmed later that same year that he had met with 140 Venezuelan businesspeople and landlords to create a similar paramilitary structure as the one he led in Colombia, particularly in border regions.
After 1997, reports showing Colombian paramilitary involvement in kidnappings and murders became common. However, in 2002, a video emerged showing “Commander Antonio” announcing the birth of the United Self-Defense Forces of Venezuela (AUV), inspired by the Colombian AUC. In the video statement, the commander said his group had declared President Hugo Chavez a military target.
More:
http://www.telesurtv.net/english/analysis/Paramilitarism-on-the-Rise-in-Venezuela-20150824-0018.html