The Commander of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) Pastor Alape has returned to Colombia from Cuba in order to participate in the release of General Ruben Dario Alzate who was captured earlier this month when he inexplicably entered a dangerous area without an escort and while dressed in civillian clothing.
Alape forms an integral part of on the ongoing peace negotiations between the Colombian Government and the FARC whom have been engaged in peace talks since 2012.
In a communique issued early Sunday Morning, the FARC confirmed that Alzate along with two other soldiers are expected to be released Sunday. The statement also declared that the prisoners will be delivered to officials from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in the presence of observers from Cuba and Norway, guarantors of the peace process.
In the recent statement, FARC announced that a Special Humanitarian Protocol had been activated early which will allow for the cessation of hostilities and will permit ICRC to enter the area where Alzate is being held and receive the prisoner.
In a recent interview with Nueva Colombia News Agency, Commander Alape asserted that the FARC is very committed to the peace process. However, he went on to note that the rebel group has encountered several operative obstacles hindering the release process of General Alzate,
“There are permanent overflights. There are patrols in strategic points. There have been troops deployment and we have engaged in land.” said Alape.
The FARC has stated that the end of military operations in the area was necessary to coordinate with the International Committee of the Red Cross, the appointed intermediary which will receive the detainees upon their release.
“We hope that the participation of the Red Cross and of guarantor countries will clear the situation in the short time so we can successfully made the release.” said Alape.