BOGOTA, Colombia — Colombia’s government is preparing to melt arms confiscated from demobilized right-wing paramilitary groups but say the move won’t destroy evidence needed to prosecute former fighters accused of abuses. The cache of 18,000 rifles, machine guns and grenade launchers, as well as nearly 3 million bullets, will be destroyed in December. Since 2003, when Bogota signed a peace deal with the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia, more than 30,000 paramilitaries have handed in weapons and renounced violence in exchange for a $180 monthly stipend, reduced prison sentences and other benefits.
Originally Published:
