There is serious concern for the safety of the civilian population in La Gabarra district in the municipality of Tibú, Norte de Santander department following a paramilitary incursion into the area in which at least 30 residents were killed. On 15 August 1999 paramilitary forces kidnapped the Bishop of Tibú, Monseñor José de Jesús Quintero Díaz which has contributed to a climate of civilian insecurity in the region.
