Former FARC Leader Sparks Controversy Over ‘Good Treatment’ of Kidnapped Victims
A 2019 statement by Rodrigo Londoño, former commander-in-chief of the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), has reopened a debate in Colombia over the treatment received by thousands of people who were kidnapped during the armed conflict. Londoño, who was known within the guerrilla group at the time as “Timochenko,” told the Special Jurisdiction […]
A former FARC leader has reignited controversy in Colombia over the treatment of kidnapped victims. Rodrigo Londoño, also known as "Timochenko" during his time with the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), defended the "good treatment" given to kidnapping victims in a 2019 statement to the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP).
The claim that there were internal guidelines for ensuring the "good treatment" of captives has sparked a debate, as many former hostages have described vastly different conditions they endured during their captivity. The JEP, which investigates the armed conflict, clarified that the existence of such guidelines does not mean they were followed.
The court found that the FARC committed numerous crimes, including kidnappings, torture, sexual violence, and homicide, affecting at least 21,396 individuals. The controversy has drawn criticism from victims and their families, who emphasize the need to acknowledge the real suffering endured during years of captivity.
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