CP/DEC. 38 (1656/08)

OPERATION IN COLOMBIA THAT RESCUED A GROUP OF PERSONS
KIDNAPPED BY THE FARC

(Adopted at its session held on July 8, 2008)

THE PERMANENT COUNCIL OF THE ORGANIZATION OF AMERICAN STATES,

DECLARES:

1. Its congratulations to the people and Government of Colombia for the successful operation that, with full respect for human rights, led to the rescue of 12 Colombians and three citizens of the United States of America, most of whom had been held by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) for more than 10 years.

2. That kidnapping is a heinous crime; that it urges the FARC and all illegal armed groups in Colombia to release immediately, without conditions, safe and in good health, all the persons they have kidnapped; and that it urges the FARC to renounce violence and to enter into a dialogue with the Colombian authorities.

3. Its support of the efforts of the Colombian State for the final achievement of peace and security in that country, efforts that must be carried out with full respect for human rights, international humanitarian law, and international law.

Persons Rescued


1. Ingrid Betancourt
2. Keith Stansell
3. Thomas Howes
4. Marc Gonsalves
5. Lieutenant Juan Carlos Bermeo, Army
6. Lieutenant Second Class Raimundo Malagón, Army
7. Corporal Second Class José Ricardo Marulanda, Army
8. Corporal Third Class William Pérez, Army
9. Corporal Second Class Erasmo Romero, Army
10. Corporal Third Class José Miguel Arteaga, Army
11. Corporal Third Class Armando Flórez, Army
12. Corporal Third Class Julio Buitrago, Police
13. Assistant Superintendent Armando Castellanos, Police
14. Lieutenant Vaney Rodríguez, Police
15. Corporal Third Class John Jairo Durán, Police