120 people offer to take place of hostages in Colombia

Bogotá, Colombia, Dec 3, 2007 / 10:03 am

The organization Operacion Kolbe in Colombia has reiterated its proposal to secure the release of kidnapped individuals being held by rebel groups in that country, with 120 volunteers offering to take the places of those in captivity.

According to the group’s spokesmen, “We have seen how different proposals for the release of the kidnapped have been made throughout 2007.  Unfortunately, all the efforts for a humanitarian accord have been made into political instruments” and have not had “the hoped-for effect which is the unconditional release of the kidnapped.”

“Today they are showing us pictures that supposedly prove they are alive, and although that may be a relief and a hope for some families, we know they are nothing more than proof of a horrendous act of degradation of the human person for political purposes,” the organization said.

“Operacion Kolbe, a relief effort for the kidnapped in Colombia, continues to exist.  Our proposal has not changed since it was published by various media outlets both in Colombia and Latin America in September of 2006.  Its main objective continues to be freedom.  120 people stand ready for it,” the group said.

More information on Operacion Kolbe can be obtained by emailing: operacionkolbe@hotmail.com