Indigenous Guard member assassinated in Páez, Cauca, after being intercepted by armed group

Violence has again struck the indigenous communities of eastern Cauca, Colombia, with the assassination of Ferney Pacho, a member of the Indigenous Guard for the Çxhab Wala Vitoncó territory in the municipality of Páez. Pacho was intercepted and detained by armed men in a rural area before being killed.

The incident occurred on Sunday, August 16. Indigenous authorities reported that Pacho was traveling after agricultural work, specifically coffee harvesting, when he was stopped. He was actively involved in protecting his territory and ensuring the safety and well-being of his community.

Initial reports suggest Pacho was intercepted along with another young man by members of an armed group that had set up an illegal roadblock. While Pacho was found dead, the whereabouts and condition of the other young man remain unclear, with indigenous communities working to secure his safe return.

Indigenous authorities are seeking to identify the armed structure responsible for the killing and detention, as well as the exact circumstances of Pacho's death. The region, particularly Páez and other areas in Tierradentro, has seen increased activity from groups like the 'Dagoberto Ramos' front of the Central General Staff, who are reportedly vying for territorial control. The Ombudsman's Office had previously warned of risks in the region, including threats, displacement, and the recruitment of minors by armed groups.