Algeciras has recorded 26 homicides in 2025 so far, surpassing 22 in 2024 and nearing the 27 of 2023, the decade's record. Most cases are linked to Farc dissidents, raising alarms in this Huila PDET municipality. Mayor Alexander Martínez calls for greater state support amid the violence surge.
Algeciras, Huila's agricultural hub, faces a violence surge that could make 2025 the deadliest year of the decade. As of December 10, 26 homicides have been reported, an 18.1% rise from 22 in 2024. This puts the municipality one case shy of matching 2023's 27. The last two months have been brutal, with 13 killings since October 18, including victims like Cristian Andrés Ibáñez Segura and Evangelina Rumique on December 12 and November 24.
Most victims are youths aged 17 to 23, linked to Farc dissidents under alias 'Calarcá' of the 'Iván Díaz' front. Mayor Alexander Martínez stresses: 'There has never been common crime in Algeciras,' adding that 'violence seems to be intensifying again in our municipality.' He decries inconsistent military presence and impunity in probes, possibly tied to territorial disputes or 'social cleansing.'
Martínez renews appeals to Gustavo Petro's government for more social investment and troops, noting 'investments have been drip-fed.' Regionally, related events include the arrest of a suspected dissident in Algeciras for extortion, sparking tension in Campoalegre with pressures from groups like 'Rodrigo Cadete.' Senator Carlos Julio González Villa calls for territorial control, prosecutions, and PDET development. Senator Esperanza Andrade blames the 'Total Peace' policy's failure, while deputy Omar Alexis Díaz cites clashes between dissidents and the Segunda Marquetalia.
This harms the local economy and stigmatizes farmers, with fears of worsening violence during December.
