Colombia Initiates Peace Talks with Notorious Clan del Golfo Gang

Colombia's government has authorized the initiation of peace talks with the Clan del Golfo, the country's largest criminal gang, as part of President Gustavo Petro's efforts to end six decades of internal conflict. The decision follows ongoing violence and a rejected deal that sought gang cooperation in exchange for reduced jail sentences.

Colombia's government on Monday authorized the initiation of peace talks with the Clan del Golfo, the country's largest criminal gang, to evaluate the group's willingness to accept the rule of law and outline terms for its potential surrender.

This step is part of President Gustavo Petro's broader efforts to resolve Colombia's six decades of internal conflict, which has resulted in over 450,000 deaths. The Clan del Golfo, also known as the Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AGC), comprises around 5,000 members, mainly former far-right paramilitaries.

The government's resolution on Monday permits a socio-judicial dialogue between authorized representatives of both the government and the gang. Previously, Colombia suspended a bilateral ceasefire with the Clan del Golfo for attacks on the military. In May 2023, the gang rejected a deal involving reduced sentences for cooperation with law enforcement, instead opting to seek a peace agreement.

(With inputs from agencies.)