"Mercenaries from Colombia: A Growing Concern"

Jesús Daniel Romero and William Acosta for Power & Money and FinGurú

Introduction

The recruitment of former Colombian soldiers as mercenaries to fight in conflicts around the world has become an urgent problem, particularly concerning ongoing civil wars and geopolitical tensions. This article analyzes the strategic implications of this phenomenon, focusing on the cases of Colombian mercenaries in Sudan and Haiti, as well as their participation in other global conflict zones. We explore the circumstances surrounding their recruitment, the routes taken to conflict areas, and the aftermath of their participation, while examining why this situation is spiraling out of control.

Recruitment and Deployment

Reports from Colombian media and international publications suggest that former Colombian soldiers are being recruited by private security companies with links to foreign entities, including firms tied to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The recruitment process often relies on word-of-mouth referrals from former military leaders and colleagues, creating a network of connections that facilitates the recruitment of ex-soldiers. Additionally, social media platforms have become tools for recruitment companies to advertise lucrative opportunities, targeting ex-soldiers with promises of substantial financial rewards for their services. Many individuals are attracted to these offers, believing that they can leverage their military experience to earn significant income.

In the case of Sudan, Colombian President Gustavo Petro has expressed his concern over the recruitment of ex-soldiers and has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to explore options for their return. This underscores the need for government intervention to address the implications of private military recruitment.

In Haiti, the involvement of Colombian ex-soldiers took a dramatic turn, as several were implicated in the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021. Reports indicated that a group of Colombian mercenaries, allegedly hired by a security firm, played a key role in the planning and execution of the assassination. This shocking event highlighted the potential consequences of mercenaries' involvement in international affairs and raised questions about accountability and oversight.

Geolocation and Travel Analysis

Recent investigations have used geolocation techniques to track the movements of Colombian ex-soldiers in conflict zones. In the case of Sudan, videos showing rocky outcrops in the Libyan desert may provide clues about the journey of individuals like Christian Lombana Moncayo, who was allegedly recruited and sent to fight alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Reports indicate that more than a hundred Colombian ex-soldiers were recruited to fight with the RSF in Sudan. Many of these individuals were misled about their final destination and transported to Sudan through Libya. This highlights the deceptive practices used by recruiters to lure former military personnel into dangerous situations.

The journey from Colombia to conflict zones often involves multiple transit points, including stops in countries like the UAE and Libya. For example, Lombana was reportedly in Abu Dhabi before heading to Benghazi, Libya, from where he was transported by road to Sudan. This route emphasizes the logistical challenges and risks associated with private military operations.

The Situation in Sudan

Sudan is currently engulfed in a brutal civil war, a conflict that erupted after the overthrow of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir. The civil struggle has led to a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF, resulting in widespread violence and instability. The recruitment of foreign mercenaries, including Colombians, adds another layer of complexity to this already volatile situation.

Libya, identified as a source of mercenaries moving to Sudan, has become a key transit point. The ongoing chaos in Libya, along with its geographical proximity to Sudan, facilitates the movement of armed groups and individuals seeking to exploit the conflict for financial gain.

Case Studies of Colombian Mercenaries

Christian Lombana Moncayo exemplifies the risks faced by Colombian ex-soldiers in foreign conflicts. His identification documents were found after an alleged ambush, and it remains unclear whether he was killed, injured, or detained. The circumstances surrounding his recruitment and subsequent deployment to Sudan raise critical questions about the motivations and accountability of those involved in the mercenary trade.

The involvement of Colombian ex-soldiers in the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse serves as a stark example of the consequences of mercenary recruitment. The political repercussions of this incident have had lasting effects on Haiti's stability and have led to increased scrutiny of Colombia's role in international conflicts. The case underscores the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to address the recruitment and deployment of private military personnel.

Reports indicate that many Colombian ex-soldiers have been recruited by security firms promising high salaries for participation in conflicts. These individuals often leave Colombia in search of better economic opportunities but find themselves in dangerous situations in conflict-ridden regions. Testimonies from several ex-soldiers suggest that they were misled about the nature of their missions and the risks involved.

Lucrative Business

Colombian mercenaries can earn up to $5,000 per month for participating in conflicts in countries like Sudan. This figure varies depending on the type of mission and the conditions of the contract.

Colombian Mercenaries in Sudan: At least 22 Colombian ex-soldiers have lost their lives in Sudan, where they are participating as mercenaries in an internal conflict.

Reasons for Recruitment: Many ex-military personnel opt for these offers due to low pensions and lack of adequate coverage after their service.

Context of the Conflict: Sudan has faced decades of violence, including dictatorships and ethnic cleansings, creating an environment conducive to mercenary recruitment.

Attractiveness of Colombian Soldiers: The training and experience of Colombian soldiers, gained over more than 50 years of armed conflict, make them attractive candidates for countries facing security crises.

It is estimated that approximately 300 Colombians have died in the war in Ukraine. Colombian mercenaries can earn up to $5,000 per month, although there are reports that some received less than promised. Primarily, these Colombians have died in Ukraine but have also been involved in conflicts in countries like Sudan, Yemen, Libya, Russia, and Afghanistan. Currently, there are Colombian mercenaries operating in Ukraine, Sudan, Mexico, the United Arab Emirates, and Libya, among others. A Colombian ex-soldier traveled to Ukraine seeking an attractive salary of 19 million pesos (approximately $4,300) per month as a volunteer in the Ukrainian army. However, he deserted after six months due to the actual salary being lower than promised and the hostile work environment, reflecting the experience of many ex-military personnel who feel deceived.

Many Colombians who become mercenaries are young ex-soldiers who retire early, have little preparation for other jobs, and depend on low pension wages. The training and experience of Colombian soldiers, acquired during years of internal conflict, make them attractive to foreign armies and security companies. Since the year 2000, there have been reports of Colombian mercenaries in various countries, including Ukraine, Sudan, Russia, Yemen, Libya, and Afghanistan.

The assassination of the Haitian president in 2021 involved Colombians, some of whom claim they were hired to kidnap him, not to kill him. Ex-soldiers have found opportunities abroad, although some warn about deceptive hiring practices and difficult working conditions.

The Colombian government is considering a law to prohibit mercenary activity, in line with international agreements, given the rising deaths and exploitation of ex-military personnel. Many ex-soldiers do not receive the necessary support to reintegrate into civilian life, perpetuating their involvement in the mercenary market. Despite government initiatives, many ex-soldiers still prefer the mercenary market due to the allure of money, as indicated by testimonies from various ex-soldiers.

Colombian and International Companies Hiring

A4SI: Founded by Omar Antonio Rodríguez Bedoya, this company has been noted for hiring numerous Colombian mercenaries for missions abroad.

Global Security Services Group (GSSG): This company has been active in recruiting Colombian ex-military personnel to work in different countries, including the UAE and Yemen.

Private Security Firms: Although not a specific company, there are several private security firms in Colombia that operate in the international market and hire ex-military personnel for various roles.

Lone Star: This company has also been mentioned in the context of hiring Colombian ex-soldiers for overseas operations.

Blackwater (now known as Academi): Although it is an international company, it has had ties with Colombian ex-soldiers in operations across different countries.

The company A4SI was founded by Omar Antonio Rodríguez Bedoya, a former Colombian army officer. Currently, its operation is led by Álvaro Quijano, a retired colonel from the same branch. Regarding Global Security Services Group (GSSG), no specific names for its leaders are provided in the article, but it is mentioned that this company has been sending Colombian soldiers abroad.

Participation in Global Conflict Zones

Colombian ex-soldiers have been reported operating in various conflict zones and regions around the world as mercenaries. Some countries and notable examples include:

Iraq: Colombian ex-soldiers have been involved in private security operations in Iraq, especially during the peak of the conflict following the U.S. invasion in 2003. They were often hired by private military companies to provide security to contractors and foreign facilities.

Afghanistan: Similar to Iraq, Colombian ex-soldiers have been recruited for security roles in Afghanistan, working for private security companies to protect military bases and supply routes.

Yemen: Reports indicate that some Colombian mercenaries have been active in Yemen, particularly in the context of the ongoing civil war. They have been hired by various factions seeking military experience.

Libya: Colombian ex-soldiers have been reported in Libya, especially during the civil war and the subsequent conflict involving various militias. Their presence has been linked to private military companies and foreign interests.

Venezuela: Some Colombian ex-soldiers have allegedly participated in operations aimed at destabilizing the Venezuelan government or supporting opposition groups, often in concert with foreign entities.

Central African Republic: Colombian mercenaries have been involved in the conflict in the Central African Republic, where they were hired by various armed groups for military training and combat support.

Haiti: Aside from the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, Colombian ex-soldiers have been involved in various security operations in Haiti, often working for private security companies amidst the country’s chronic instability.

Syria: There have been reports of Colombian ex-soldiers being recruited to fight alongside various factions in the Syrian civil war, although specific details are less documented.

South Sudan: Some Colombian mercenaries have been reported operating in South Sudan, where they have been involved in training local forces or providing security services amidst the ongoing conflict.

Ecuador: Colombian ex-soldiers have also been involved in security operations in Ecuador, particularly in relation to the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime.

Ukraine: Colombian ex-soldiers have been recruited by various private military companies and organizations to provide training and tactical support to Ukrainian forces. Some reports indicate that they may have participated in direct combat operations alongside Ukrainian forces against Russian troops.

These examples illustrate the extensive recruitment of Colombian ex-soldiers as mercenaries in various global contexts, often driven by economic incentives and the demand for military experience in conflict zones.

Factors Contributing to the Crisis

Several factors contribute to the growing crisis of recruiting Colombian ex-soldiers as mercenaries:

Economic Instability and Lack of Opportunities: The persistent economic instability in Colombia, characterized by high unemployment rates, creates fertile ground for the recruitment of former soldiers.

Proliferation of Private Military Companies: The rise of private military companies has significantly altered the landscape of modern conflicts. These entities often operate with little oversight and are primarily motivated by profit interests rather than national interests, leading to the normalization of mercenary work.

Geopolitical Interests and Conflicts: Geopolitical dynamics, particularly in regions like Sudan and Haiti, create a demand for mercenary forces. Foreign entities often seek personnel from Colombia, which has a history of military involvement, to fill gaps in their operations.

Lack of Oversight and Government Regulation: The Colombian government has struggled to effectively manage the recruitment of ex-soldiers for mercenary roles. Existing legal frameworks are insufficient to address the complexities of private military recruitment, allowing unscrupulous companies to exploit vulnerable individuals.

Social and Ethical Implications: The increasing involvement of Colombian ex-soldiers in mercenary activities raises significant ethical questions and can damage Colombia's international reputation. The psychological cost to these individuals, many of whom may struggle with the implications of their actions, can have long-term consequences.

Conclusion: The recruitment of Colombian ex-soldiers as mercenaries reflects broader trends in global conflict dynamics and private military engagements. Cases like that of Christian Lombana Moncayo and the soldiers involved in the assassination of Jovenel Moïse highlight the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to address the recruitment and deployment of private military personnel.

As Colombia navigates the challenges posed by this issue, it is essential for the government to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens while addressing the underlying factors contributing to their recruitment. Implementing comprehensive regulations, providing better support for veterans, and fostering international cooperation to combat mercenary trade are critical steps. Without such measures, Colombia risks further entrenching itself in a cycle of violence and instability, with far-reaching implications for both its citizens and the international community.

Media Credits: El Tiempo, Semana, El Espectador, La Silla Vacía, RCN Radio, Caracol Televisión, Blu Radio, BBC News, The New York Times, Al Jazeera, Reuters, Associated Press (AP), The Guardian, Foreign Policy, The Washington Post. These media outlets have provided valuable information on the recruitment of mercenaries and the geopolitical context in which these events unfold, contributing to a greater understanding of this issue.

Jesús Daniel Romero became an officer through the Navy's Enlisted Program and graduated with honors from Norfolk State University, receiving a Bachelor's degree in Political Science. He later graduated from the Naval Aviation Pre-Flight Indoctrination Course at the Naval Aviation Schools Command and pursued intermediate training in VT-10 and VT-86 squadrons. He served aboard a nuclear missile cruiser, amphibious operation ships, and staff squadrons, a fixed-wing bombing attack squadron, and a carrier air wing, and was deployed to Libya, Bosnia, Iraq, and Somalia. He served on tours with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) in Panama, the Joint Intelligence Center in the Pacific in Hawaii, and the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command. Jesús and his team successfully attacked an international criminal organization operating in several countries and in the United States, dismantling and disrupting criminal activities on behalf of Mexican cartels.

William L. Acosta is the founder and CEO of Equalizer Private Investigations & Security Services Inc., a licensed and bonded investigation agency in NYS and FL. With offices and affiliates worldwide, Equalizer maintains offices and branches in the United States in New York, Florida, and California. Since 1999, Equalizer investigations have successfully closed hundreds of cases, ranging from homicides, missing persons, and other crimes. He has been involved in the defense of hundreds of state and federal criminal cases, including homicide, narcotics, racketeering, money laundering, conspiracy, and other federal and state charges. He specializes in international and multijurisdictional investigations, and in recent years has conducted investigations in Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, England, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, among other locations. He has led or coordinated hundreds of investigations related to international drug trafficking, money laundering, and homicides; and has been an instructor and international speaker on various investigative topics. Specialties include Criminal Defense Investigations, International Investigations, Homicides, Narcotics Undercover Operations, Investigations, Asset Forfeiture Investigations, Conspiracy, International Human Trafficking, Surveillance, International Terrorism, Intelligence, Technical Surveillance Countermeasures, Internal Affairs Investigations, National Security.