Colombia’s mercenaries: a growing concern
Introduction
The recruitment of former Colombian soldiers as mercenaries to fight in conflicts around the world has become a pressing issue, particularly in relation to ongoing civil wars and geopolitical tensions. This article analyzes the strategic implications of this phenomenon, focusing on the cases of Colombian mercenaries in Sudan and Haiti, as well as their involvement in other global conflict zones. We explore the circumstances surrounding their recruitment, the routes taken to conflict zones, and the aftermath of their involvement, while examining why this situation is getting out of hand.
Recruitment and Deployment
Reports from Colombian media and international publications suggest that Colombian former soldiers are being targeted for recruitment by private security firms with ties to foreign entities, including companies linked to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The recruitment process often relies on word-of-mouth referrals from former military leaders and colleagues, creating a network of connections that facilitate the recruitment of ex-soldiers. Additionally, social media platforms have become tools for recruitment companies to advertise lucrative opportunities, targeting ex-soldiers with promises of large financial rewards for their services. Many individuals are drawn to these offers, believing they can leverage their military experience for substantial earnings.
In the case of Sudan, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has expressed concern over the recruitment of ex-soldiers and has instructed the Foreign Ministry to explore options for their return. This underscores the need for government intervention in addressing the implications of private military recruitment.
In Haiti, the involvement of Colombian ex-soldiers took a dramatic turn as several were implicated in the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021. Reports indicated that a group of Colombian mercenaries, allegedly hired by a security firm, played a key role in the planning and execution of the assassination. This shocking event highlighted the potential consequences of mercenary involvement in international affairs and raised questions about accountability and oversight.
Geolocation and Journey Analysis
Recent investigations have utilized geolocation techniques to trace the movements of Colombian ex-soldiers in conflict zones. In the case of Sudan, videos depicting rocky outcrops in the Libyan desert may provide insights into the journey of individuals like Christian Lombana Moncayo, who was reportedly recruited and sent to fight alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Reports indicate that more than a hundred Colombian ex-soldiers were recruited to fight with the RSF in Sudan. Many of these individuals were misled about their ultimate destination and transported to Sudan via Libya. This highlights the deceptive practices used by recruiters to attract former military personnel into dangerous situations.
The journey from Colombia to conflict zones often involves multiple transit points, including stops in countries like the UAE and Libya. For instance, Lombana reportedly arrived in Abu Dhabi before making his way to Benghazi, Libya, from where he was transported by road to Sudan. This route emphasizes the logistical challenges and risks associated with private military operations.
The Situation in Sudan
Sudan is currently embroiled in a brutal civil war, a conflict that erupted following the ousting of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir. The civil strife has led to a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, resulting in widespread violence and instability. The recruitment of foreign mercenaries, including Colombians, adds another layer of complexity to this already volatile situation.
Libya, identified as a source of mercenaries moving into Sudan, has become a key transit point. The ongoing chaos in Libya, coupled with its geographical proximity to Sudan, facilitates the movement of armed groups and individuals seeking to exploit the conflict for financial gain.
Case Studies of Colombian Mercenaries
Christian Lombana Moncayo exemplifies the risks faced by Colombian ex-soldiers in foreign conflicts. His identity documents were found in the aftermath of an alleged ambush, and it remains unclear whether he was killed, wounded, or detained. The circumstances surrounding his recruitment and subsequent deployment to Sudan raise critical questions about the motivations and accountability of those involved in the mercenary trade.
The involvement of Colombian ex-soldiers in the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse serves as a stark example of the consequences of mercenary recruitment. The political fallout from this incident has had lasting effects on Haiti’s stability and has led to increased scrutiny of Colombia’s role in international conflicts. The case underscores the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to address the recruitment and deployment of private military personnel.
Reports indicate that many Colombian ex-soldiers have been recruited by security companies promising high salaries for participation in conflicts. These individuals often leave Colombia seeking better economic opportunities but find themselves in perilous situations in war-torn regions. The testimonies of several ex-soldiers suggest that they were misled regarding the nature of their missions and the risks involved.
Profitable Business
Colombian mercenaries can earn up to $5,000 per month for participating in conflicts in countries like Sudan. This figure varies depending on the type of mission and the conditions of the contract.
Colombian Mercenaries in Sudan: At least 22 former Colombian soldiers have lost their lives in Sudan, where they are participating as mercenaries in an internal conflict.
Reasons for Recruitment: Many former military personnel opt for these offers due to low pensions and a lack of adequate coverage after their service.
Context of the Conflict: Sudan has faced decades of violence, including dictatorships and ethnic cleansings, creating an environment conducive to the recruitment of mercenaries.
Attractiveness of Colombian Soldiers: The training and experience of Colombian soldiers, acquired over more than 50 years of armed conflict, make them attractive candidates for countries facing security crises.
It is estimated that approximately 300 Colombians have died in the war in Ukraine. Colombian mercenaries can earn up to $5,000 a month, although there are reports that some received less than promised. Primarily, these Colombians have died in Ukraine, but they have also been involved in conflicts in countries such as Sudan, Yemen, Libya, Russia, and Afghanistan. Currently, there are Colombian mercenaries operating in Ukraine, Sudan, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, and Libya, among others. A retired Colombian soldier traveled to Ukraine seeking an attractive salary of 19 million pesos (approximately $4,300) per month as a volunteer in the Ukrainian army. However, he deserted after six months due to actual pay being lower than promised and a hostile work environment, reflecting the experience of many former military personnel who feel deceived.
Many Colombians who become mercenaries are former soldiers who retire young, have little preparation for other jobs, and rely on low pension salaries. The training and experience of Colombian soldiers, acquired during years of internal conflict, make them appealing to foreign armies and security companies. Since 2000, Colombian mercenaries have been reported in various countries, including Ukraine, Sudan, Russia, Yemen, Libya, and Afghanistan.
The assassination of the Haitian president in 2021 involved Colombians, some of whom claim they were hired to kidnap him, not to kill him. Former soldiers have found opportunities abroad, although some warn about misleading hiring practices and difficult working conditions.
The Colombian government is considering a law to prohibit mercenary activity, in line with international agreements, given the increase in deaths and the exploitation of former military personnel. Many former soldiers do not receive the necessary assistance to reintegrate into civilian life, perpetuating their participation in the mercenary market. Despite government initiatives, many ex-soldiers still prefer the mercenary market due to the lure of money, as indicated by the testimonies of several former soldiers.
Colombian and International Companies Hiring
1. A4SI: Founded by Omar Antonio Rodríguez Bedoya, this company has been noted for hiring numerous Colombian mercenaries for missions abroad.
2. Global Security Services Group (GSSG): This company has been active in recruiting former Colombian military personnel to work in different countries, including the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.
3. Private Security Corps: Although not a specific company, there are several private security firms in Colombia that operate in the international market and hire former military personnel for various roles.
4. Lone Star: This company has also been mentioned in the context of hiring former Colombian soldiers for overseas operations.
5. Blackwater (now known as Academi): Although it is an international company, it has had ties with Colombian ex-soldiers in operations in different countries.
The company A4SI was founded by Omar Antonio Rodríguez Bedoya, a former Colombian army officer. Currently, its operation is led by Álvaro Quijano, a retired colonel from the same branch. As for Global Security Services Group (GSSG), specific names of its leaders are not provided in the article, but it is mentioned that this company has been sending Colombian soldiers abroad.
Involvement in Global Conflict Zones
Colombian ex-soldiers have been reported to operate in various conflict zones and regions around the world as mercenaries. Notable countries and examples include:
Iraq: Colombian ex-soldiers have been involved in private security operations in Iraq, particularly during the height of the conflict following the U.S. invasion in 2003. They were often hired by private military companies to provide security for foreign contractors and facilities.
Afghanistan: Similar to Iraq, Colombian ex-soldiers have been recruited for security roles in Afghanistan, working for private security firms to protect military bases and supply routes.
Yemen: Reports indicate that some Colombian mercenaries have been active in Yemen, particularly in the context of the ongoing civil war. They have been hired by various factions seeking military expertise.
Libya: Colombian ex-soldiers have been reported to operate in Libya, particularly during the civil war and subsequent conflict involving various militias. Their presence has been linked to private military companies and foreign interests.
Venezuela: Some Colombian ex-soldiers have reportedly participated in operations aimed at destabilizing the Venezuelan government or supporting opposition groups, often in conjunction with foreign entities.
Central African Republic: Colombian mercenaries have been involved in the conflict in the Central African Republic, where they were reportedly hired by various armed groups for military training and combat support.
Haiti: In addition to the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, Colombian ex-soldiers have been involved in various security operations in Haiti, often working for private security firms amid the country’s chronic instability.
Syria: There have been reports of Colombian ex-soldiers being recruited to fight alongside various factions in the Syrian civil war, although specific details are less documented.
South Sudan: Some Colombian mercenaries have been reported to operate in South Sudan, where they have been involved in training local forces or providing security services amid ongoing conflict.
Ecuador: Colombian ex-soldiers have also been involved in security operations in Ecuador, particularly in relation to combating drug trafficking and organized crime.
Ukraine: Colombian ex-soldiers have been recruited by various private military companies and organizations to provide training and tactical support to Ukrainian forces. Some reports indicate that they may have participated in direct combat operations alongside Ukrainian forces against Russian troops.
These examples illustrate the widespread recruitment of Colombian ex-soldiers as mercenaries in various global contexts, often driven by economic incentives and the demand for military expertise in conflict zones.
Factors Contributing to the Crisis
Several factors contribute to the escalating crisis of Colombian ex-soldiers being recruited as mercenaries:
Economic Instability and Lack of Opportunities: Persistent economic instability in Colombia, characterized by high unemployment rates, creates a fertile ground for recruitment by private military firms. Many ex-soldiers seek financial stability and are drawn to the promise of lucrative contracts in conflict zones.
Proliferation of Private Military Companies: The rise of private military companies has significantly altered the landscape of modern conflict. These entities often operate with little oversight and are driven primarily by profit motives rather than national interests, leading to a normalization of mercenary work.
Geopolitical Interests and Conflicts: Geopolitical dynamics, particularly in regions like Sudan and Haiti, create demand for mercenary forces. Foreign entities often seek personnel from Colombia, which has a history of military engagement, to fill gaps in their operations.
Lack of Government Oversight and Regulation: The Colombian government has struggled to effectively manage the recruitment of ex-soldiers into mercenary roles. The existing legal frameworks are insufficient to address the complexities of private military recruitment, allowing unscrupulous companies to exploit vulnerable individuals.
Social and Ethical Implications: The increasing involvement of Colombian ex-soldiers in mercenary activities raises significant ethical questions and can damage Colombia’s international reputation. The psychological toll on these individuals, many of whom may struggle with the implications of their actions, can have long-term consequences.
Conclusion
The recruitment of Colombian ex-soldiers as mercenaries reflects broader trends in global conflict dynamics and private military engagements. The cases of individuals like Christian Lombana Moncayo and the soldiers involved in the assassination of Jovenel Moïse highlight the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to address the recruitment and deployment of private military personnel.
As Colombia navigates the challenges posed by this issue, it is essential for the government to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens while addressing the underlying factors contributing to their recruitment. Implementing comprehensive regulations, providing better support for veterans, and fostering international cooperation to combat the mercenary trade are critical steps. Without such measures, Colombia risks further entrenching itself in a cycle of violence and instability, with far-reaching implications for both its citizens and the international community
By, William Acosta, NYPD, (Ret) and Jesus Daniel Romero, USN, (Ret)
