Mysterious guerrillas suspected in French legionary's kidnapping in Colombia

The kidnapping of José Olger Melo Charry, a Franco-Colombian soldier serving in the French Foreign Legion, has raised questions about the identity of the perpetrators in Colombia. The incident, which occurred in late August, has generated conflicting reports regarding the specific guerrilla group involved.

While the news has drawn significant attention in France, certainty about the responsible party remains elusive. Initial press reports have pointed to two dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) as potential culprits.

However, a Colombian army report cited by AFP suggests the most plausible hypothesis involves a group known as the 'Central Staff' (EMC). This faction is reportedly led by Nestor Gregorio Vera Fernandez, more commonly known by his alias 'Ivan Mordisco.' The report refers to this possibility using conditional language, indicating a lack of absolute confirmation.

Ivan Mordisco is described as Colombia's most wanted guerrilla leader. His profile reveals a history of violence and criminal activity, including involvement in cocaine trafficking, extortion of business leaders, and bombings. He joined the FARC at the young age of 21 in 1995, accumulating two decades of combat experience.