Colombia’s largest rebel group the FARC on Wednesday announced plans to release five hostages.
In an open letter to former Senator Piedad Cordoba, published on FARC-friendly website Anncol, the rebels’ high command announced the liberation of two local politicians, one police major, one soldier and one marine.
“As a humanitarian gesture and in honor of the senator of peace [Cordoba], we will release the following five prisoners: police Major Guillermo Solorzano, army soldier Salin Sanmiguel, marine Henry Lopez Martinez, and the presidents of the municipal councils of San Jose de Guaviare Marcos Vaquero and Garzon Huila Armando Acuño, these last two investigated by the FARC for corruption,” the FARC wrote.
“The decision is made and the date [of the hostages’ release] depends on the guarantees given by the government so that Senator Cordoba can receive those who will be released,” the letter continued.
The FARC hold 20 members of the security forces and two council members hostage that are “exchangeable.” The guerrillas are also accused of holding civilians hostage for extortion purposes, but how many is unclear.