Terrorism threat increase for anniversary of death of FARC founder

Authorities have advised that there is an increased risk of terrorism on 26 March 2009, as leftist rebels may attempt to perpetrate attacks to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the death of the founder of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), as well as the so-called "Day of the Universal Right to Armed Rebellion." Authorities believe that guerilla and narco-trafficking groups will likely target police and military installations; however, the groups may also target civilian sites, such as large commercial centers and public transportation hubs in large cities. The Colombian government has issued an alert to all security officials and has redoubled the efforts of the security community, especially in the departments of Putumayo, Antioquia, Valle de Cauca, Norte Santander, Cauca and Nariño. Approximately 18,000 military troops have been deployed throughout the country to defend the population from acts of domestic terrorism.