At least 52 people have been killed in clashes between rival armed groups fighting for territorial control in southeastern Colombia, according to statements from one of the factions involved in the violence.

The fighting took place in the jungle region of Guaviare department, near the village of Barranco Colorado. The area is considered strategically important for cocaine production and trafficking operations.

According to a faction of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the casualties were guerrilla fighters from the competing groups. The clashes represent some of the most violent confrontations in the region in recent months.

The Guaviare department has been a focal point for armed groups seeking to control lucrative drug trafficking routes and production areas following the 2016 peace agreement between the Colombian government and the main FARC organization.

Multiple armed factions continue to operate in remote areas of Colombia, often fighting for control of territories involved in the illegal drug trade despite ongoing government efforts to establish state presence in these regions.