Thousands of children recruited by armed groups to kill in Colombia
Summary
Armed groups in Colombia are recruiting children to perform violent acts, with a recent case involving a 15-year-old allegedly shooting a senator. Authorities are investigating and attribute the problem to Colombia's long history of conflict. Despite past efforts to address these issues, child recruitment by armed groups remains a significant problem.Key Facts
- A 15-year-old was arrested for allegedly shooting Colombian senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, who is in critical condition.
- The boy reportedly claimed he committed the act to provide money for his family.
- Authorities reported 409 cases of children recruited by armed groups in 2024, up from 342 in 2023.
- This recruitment issue is rooted in Colombia's history of armed conflict and organized crime.
- Both historical and new criminal groups have been involved in recruiting children for violent acts.
- High-profile figures were previously targeted by child hitmen, including crimes linked to drug lord Pablo Escobar's era.
- The Historical Memory Center in Colombia has highlighted how child recruitment has continued over the years.
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