The Dark Side of Colombia Few People Know

In the Catatumbo region near the Venezuelan border, dozens of people have been killed as rebel groups fight for control of drug routes. Entire families have fled their homes, joining thousands of displaced people living in makeshift shelters far from the violence.

The area is rich in coca crops and nearly lawless, making it a prize for traffickers and guerrillas. Despite military patrols, the killings continue. Locals say the conflict feels endless, with the same cycle of fear, promises of peace, and broken trust repeating again and again.