The largest, best trained, and best equipped guerrilla organization in Colombia. Established in 1966 as military wing of Colombian Communist Party. Goal is to overthrow government and ruling class. Has been anti-US since its inception. Activities Armed attacks against Colombian political and military targets.
Many members pursue criminal activities, carrying out kidnappings for profit and bank robberies.
Foreign citizens often are targets of FARC kidnappings. Group traffics in drugs and has well-documented ties to narcotraffickers. Strength Approximately 7,000 armed combatants and an unknown number of supporters, mostly in rural areas. External Aid None.