Hostages NOT Rescued, Exchanged For $20 Million U.S. Dollars

sanandressi says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:16:

Me thinks that this ex member of the FARC who went turncoat actually helped turn them over. If $20 million was paid then why is the leader Cesar in custody? Why would he get on the aircraft if it was a paid $20 million deal? Cesar would have known!!

Now, if Cesar suddenly is in Monaco in 6 month with his family then obviously he gave them up!

Support Plan Colombia, re-elect ilena Ros-Lehtinen

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:19:

sanadressi,

Agree, the turncoat probably walked away with $20 million dollars.
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Details of Colombia rescue focus on turncoat
A rebel’s desire for revenge against his commander and U. S. technological support helped lead to the success of the Colombian hostage recue.
By Frank Bajak - ASSOCIATED PRESS

BOGOTA, Colombia — The plan was nothing if not audacious: A turncoat persuades rebels to bring together their most prized hostages and march them 90 miles through Colombia’s wilderness. A month later, disguised commandos primed with acting lessons land in a helicopter and trick the rebels into handing them over.

The mission was to rescue three U. S. military contractors, former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt and 11 others held captive in the Colombian jungles for years.

Its success hinged entirely, its planners said Thursday, on a near-total breakdown in communications between the isolated guerrilla jailers and their commanders — the result of years of intense U. S.- Colombian military cooperation that has seriously weakened Latin America’s last major rebel army — and on the turncoat’s desire for revenge against his commander who had taken away his home and farm.

“When I first got briefed, I said, ‘This is realistic? Can this truly work?’ ��? U. S. Ambassador William Brownfield told the Associated Press. “And obviously, the answer was yes.��?

Wednesday’s expertly choreographed rescue had its genesis in the escape last year of a Colombian who had spent time in captivity with the three Americans and Betancourt.

But it began to gain steam only in January, when Colombian intelligence determined that the hostages were being moved, said Gen. Freddy Padilla, Colombia’s armed forces chief.

The Colombians installed U. S.-provided remote-controlled video monitoring devices — which can zoom in and out — along rivers that are the only transport route through dense jungles, U. S. and Colombian officials said. U. S. surveillance planes intercepted rebel radio and satellite phone conversations and employed foliage-penetrating imagery, they said.

In mid-February, a Colombian patrol spotted the three Americans — Marc Gonsalves, Keith Stansell and Thomas Howes — bathing in the Apoporis River under guard, the first sight of the Americans since their surveillance plane crashed in 2003.

For four days, “We had eyes on them,��? Brownfield said.

But a rescue operation was deemed too risky and called off.

“The [Colombian] president’s order was: Rescue, yes, but without even a drop of blood,��? said a Colombian army general directly involved in the mission, speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasn’t authorized to disclose details.

The general said a disgruntled member of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, had agreed to spearhead the operation. The turncoat, he said, was trusted by both the rebels’ high command and by the leader of the 1st Front, which was holding the hostages.

“The FARC’s communications are medieval,��? Padilla said. He said its command-and-control is so diminished that it sends important messages by courier. This breakdown in the chain of command has made it easier to flip disillusioned rebels to the government’s side. Padilla said more than one double agent was involved in this mission.

But the turncoat was the key. He convinced Gerardo Aguilar Ramirez, alias Cesar, the 1st Front commander, that top commanders wanted the 15 hostages moved to a rallying point, the general directly involved in the operation told the AP.

The turncoat was upset with the FARC because his own commander had taken a house and farm away from him, the general said. This was payback.

U. S. spy satellites helped track the hostages on a monthlong journey that began May 31 and ended with Wednesday’s rescue.

From mid-June on, Brownfield and a team of 100 people at the U. S. Embassy worked closely with the Colombians running the operation.

Several times, Brownfield said, the U. S. government had to make decisions — “at the highest levels��? — about proceeding.

Monday, President Alvaro Uribe gave the go-ahead, Padilla said.

Tuesday, the two Russian-made helicopters left a military base in an Andean mountain valley, settling down for a nervous night in a wilderness clearing.

Aboard the helicopter that would recover the hostages were four Air Force crewmen in civilian disguise, seven military intelligence agents and the guerrilla turncoat, military officials said. Two of the agents were dressed as rebels, and the rest wore white, as if representing some sort of humanitarian mission. All had taken a week and a half of acting lessons, Padilla said.

Shortly after midday on Wednesday, the helicopter touched down at the rendezvous point.

One of the agents, posing as a cameraman, recorded video as the guerrillas on the ground bound the hostages’ hands on the crew’s instructions, Padilla said. Tying up the hostages was part of the plan.

“These are 14 trained soldiers we’re dealing with,��? Padilla said, referring to the captive Americans and 11 Colombian soldiers or police. “Nobody wanted to risk them trying to overpower the crew.��?

Once aloft, it was Cesar and his aide, Enrique Rojas, who were overpowered instead.

There was no need for Plan B— sending 39 helicopters and 2,000 troops to encircle the hostage-holders and trying to persuade them to give up peacefully.

The turncoat is now free and will likely receive a sizable amount from a $100 million government reward fund, the general said.

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:23:

"This is like a movie."

How many times has that been stated in interviews?

Truth is, it's better than a movie, it's fur (sic) real.

Hollywood screenwriters aren't this talented, nor have the imagination to come up with all these twist and turns.

To be continued.............

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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mimimimimi says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:29:

yeap that version can be true ,it was to perfect and to simple to be true ..ahi hubo gato encerrado digo yo!

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:38:

This is very interesting, it is like a movie.

"One of the agents, posing as a cameraman, recorded video as the guerrillas on the ground bound the hostages’ hands on the crew’s instructions, Padilla said. Tying up the hostages was part of the plan.

“These are 14 trained soldiers we’re dealing with, Padilla said, referring to the captive Americans and 11 Colombian soldiers or police. “Nobody wanted to risk them trying to overpower the crew."

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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Gator says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:38:

Radio Switzerland Romanda (RSR) The United States was the " origin of transactions"

Now there is a source everyone listens to daily and has a world-wide reputation for investigative reporting (and everyone knows the USA is the origin and source of all evil in the world.) I am surprised they did not report the pilot said, "Ven pronto, porque si no, me ire sin ti."

"Credidi pretio parvo emere et magno vendere tibi in animo fuisse!" .

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:40:

good reporting. i guess the FARC will be looking for new high value chips now...

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:41:

I wonder if they will eventually release the footage shot of the hostages being tied up and loaded on the plans?

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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gorgonabob says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:41:

if you had seen alias cesar on television yesterday afternoon you would have noticed that there was no chance in hell he was part of any deal... he looked half dead...

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gorgonabob says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:44:

ive never seen someone look so beaten, so destroyed. the only deal he was part of was with the devil

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eywed says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:45:

Someone post a picture plzzzz

Ay Hombe!!!!!

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:46:

tejasmarcos says, "good reporting. i guess the FARC will be looking for new high value chips now..."

Yes, once FARC finds out about the hostage rescue, word on the street, or jungle, moves very slow, it may take months for the news to reach top FARC members :O)

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:46:

Crappish propaganda
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:46:

spy satellites and technology toys are awesome, if you can afford them. they can tell what color your eyes are, but we still can't find bin laden. i find that impossible to believe...

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:53:

huskie says, "Crappish propaganda."

NO! Great material for a Hollywood movie to be shot in Colombia!

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:54:

Radio Switzerland Romanda (RSR) The United States was the " origin of transactions"

So they saying Bush put the money?

These Euros are so pissed with the success of Uribe they will be making up stories from 'reliable sources' for years…

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:55:

MT - i was told by some gov people in here in Medellin that there will be several film making people/groups at the Flower Festival this year. They were pretty happy about it...

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:56:

Who is the source of Radio Switzerland Romanda (RSR)? Buggy? Jajajaja

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:57:

The Colombian government has offered monies for freed hostages, don't doubt the US government has done so as well for the release of the three Americans, they do it all the time, nothing new. I don't see where "it's made up."

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 06:59:

I want to be in that movie, where can I go to show my acting talents, will you be my director or are you the screen writter MT?
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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SUERTE GRINGO says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:01:

I can't wait for the movie.

Hopefully it's in English because I hate reading subtitles.

“If you're gonna eat your crackers in bed, you're gonna have to sleep with crumbs."

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:01:

They need to do Rambo 5 in Colombia. At least it would be based on a true story this time...

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:05:

tejasmarcos says, "MT - i was told by some gov people in here in Medellin that there will be several film making people/groups at the Flower Festival this year. They were pretty happy about it...

es un secreto privado informacion no para todos los ridiculos miembros de phb nos vemos pronto :O)

Huskie,
Screenwriter.

Directing actors SUCKS!

In film school my teacher always encouraged students to work on porno shoots if given the opportunity. I was always a hands on director, but it didn't go to well since I didn't have the "tools" to showcase my talents. My life has never been the same. Now, if only I could get back that footage, it's out there.

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:08:

Well, put on a good word for me Vale?
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:11:

"if you had seen alias cesar on television yesterday afternoon you would have noticed that there was no chance in hell he was part of any deal... he looked half dead..."

I think if he had been given 20 million dollars he would have looked even more happy than Ingrid...don't you think buggy? Jajajaja...

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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webmanco says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:14:

Somewhere down the line both parties won Goverment and Farc, wheter only a handfull of the lattest got some benefits. IMHO it was more negotiated than anything else, who would put all his golden eggs in just one nest? just think about it.

I just wish for a peacefull July 20th and forever after.
http://poorbuthappy.com/colombia/post/new-march-july-20th/


Now many would say who cares what went under the table, the results is what matters.

When you know what in reality went under the table, you could prepare for future events, without knowing it we just keep going "manipulated" as in politics.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:18:

Huskie, which role did you have in mind? Certainly NOT Ingrid...perhaps one of the USAmerican mercenaries/contrators/spies/freedom fighters/heroes?

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:18:

An operation of this scale, especially one that seems to be very successful, had to have a long list of characters involved to make it all happen.

As webmanco states, "the results is what matters."

It's a major victory for the Colombian people who are tired of the FARC, it's definitely a major blow to FARC.

Coming soon to a theatre near you........

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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webmanco says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:19:

Desi good sense of humor

Simon would be Justice Minister Santos or maybe the General, not I think the General is too soff besides Simon.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:23:

I can play several roles at the same time Desi jiji
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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bamacellist says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:24:

I would like to chime in here and say that if they did in fact pay the referred to rebel turncoat for his cooperation, that does not make them any less "rescued". If that was the infiltration in the Secratariat of the Farc it becomes easier to see how César was so thoroughly duped. It also does not mean the operation was any less tricky or risky. So many different people and logistical considerations were involved. There were so many stages where this could have crumbled, so many ways this could have become a disaster. This is true even if César was in on it. It would have been foolproof only if every farcster anywhere near it was also in on it.

If they paid someone to help them. SO WHAT?!?! The intelligence community uses whatever method it can to turn people and gain cooperation. Money is a popular tool. If they used it, great. This doesn't change anything regarding the success of the mission, nor the risks involved in its undertaking. There's just no way to paint this as anything other than an incredible and shocking success. Sorry, Buggy :)

"The future is much like the present, only longer."

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:27:

tejasmarcos as one of the three American hostages.

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:27:

The Farc want Euros now not US$. Whoever made up that story needs to follow more closely the new currency trends…

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:28:

Oh, I know, now that I can further evalute you question Desi, I really would do a great scene playing Ms Betancourt's maid.

Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:28:

and buggy as cesar

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:31:

Oh hell NO!!!!! I would not let that coakroach in the same movie with me, no way Jose
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:34:

He can play in the other movie they are going to film " My miserable life"
He can play the major role on that one, what do you think...
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:34:

Can you think of a better person to play cesar?

Or maybe he could play Cano

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:36:

i wish they would get rid of more american $$. the exchange rate has began to go the other direction once again.

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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Medellin Traveler says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:37:

Medo was born to play Cesar. The missunderstood HERO!

"Huevos Rancheros en Medellin, No Quiero Taco Bell." - www.medellintraveler.com

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paisa29 says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:38:

Who cares about the money here... the most important factor for the operation was the military intelligence

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bamacellist says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:39:

Maybe there will be a part for Buggy in Oliver Stone's version.

"The future is much like the present, only longer."

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webmanco says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:43:

The Military Intelligence???? $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ And I though money did not buy it all.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Monpirri says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:48:

This post is full of bologna or envy and it should be deleted! It's very easy to find in the Internet what ever we want to post.

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 07:52:

what is the baloney or envy monpirri, I hope you mean the article written..
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:03:

Huskie...you can play several roles??? How'bout the turnacoat role then?

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:09:

No, I think I would be best at Betancourt's maid/servant
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:13:

I honestly would not be a snitch/bitch for money, therefore could not act as a snitch/bitch but a servant, don't care about the money.... in this case
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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webmanco says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:14:

Don´t care for money, want your servant duties to to be paid in especie?

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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mimimimimi says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:14:

but does anyone know how much farc makes selling drugs, must be a lot...
and why to let all this people go just for 20m usd after keeping them for so much yearsis kinda little compare to the money they make ...i guess

now that i think again of it it doesnt make any sense...they dont need money

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:15:

Whateve
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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huskie says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:16:

In this case, web, in this case jijiji
Cheers

"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds-"

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gringoloid says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:17:

so it turns out jonas was correct.

http://poorbuthappy.com/colombia/post/the-hostage-story-is-not-all-tru...

Who are the three blind men?

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webmanco says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:18:

It makes sense when there were more "dadivas" given.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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gringoloid says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:23:

billyb says on Jul 3, 2008, 05:52: flag

Loid, web et al, it's not that we think we know the whole story, it's just that it doesn't matter. What is so hard for you guys to understand about the hostages being rescued without anybody harmed being a good thing? So what if it later turns out that they were bought? So much the better, it just shows how willing the FARC is to sell itself out. Of course if it makes you guys feel smarter to act cynical and pretend that you are members of the secret society of the all-knowing, well, good for you. Myself, I will just relish this moment for what it really means, and that is freedom for 15 people.

.
.
.
.so the truth doesn't matter? thank you for finally admitting that. i'll keep this in mind when reading your future comments.
billy, show us where we said that this was not a good operation. i posted a picture on another thread of ingrid meetintg with my friends........not a dry eye in the house, and i said so. take a look at my comment where i expressed hope for the others release.

and of course, the usual ad hominen, name calling, from you and everyone else around here who can't handle the truth:

quote: ""Of course if it makes you guys feel smarter to act cynical and pretend that you are members of the secret society of the all-knowing, well, good for you.""

Who are the three blind men?

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:47:

mimi - it is estimated that the FARC controls about $600 million USD per year in narcotics trade. that does not take into account the street value of the drug(s) in places such as Europe and the USA where many estimates run as high as $40 billion per year.

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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romy says on Jul 4, 2008, 08:57:

I care if the government that supposedly represents the people, lies to the people... I don`t like people lying to me, but I guess it might just be a pet peeve of mine

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Monpirri says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:01:

Husky, the story or article on this post is bologna as you said it's propaganda. As I said in the Internet one can find whatever news she or he pleases.
"what is the baloney or envy monpirri, I hope you mean the article written..
Cheers"

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

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juancegomez says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:16:

The claim is that either the payment was made by the U.S. or at least motivated by it, and that the money went to César, not to the entire FARC organization.

But it is a claim, not a proven fact....something which requires evidence, not just statements.

Apparently that matters little.

This doesn't mean that there can't possibly be a lie in the official story...but I am not going to immediately assume so just because of a single report. If anyone else wants to do so, it's up to each person.


jack_jason: "Guys, the thing is, the government did buy a lot of people with in the FARC, the government did not lie about it as you all already red in all new papers, where the government offered US20 million reward to be share between every one able to help with the release of the hostages. Every body knows that."

Actually, the government was speaking of a fund of up to 100 million, not 20.

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bamacellist says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:21:

There is something currently missing in all these "Farc were paid therefore yoiu can't call is a rescue" stories. They don't explore at all who was paid and what actual role that payment might have played. The implication is that the money was paid to the Farc as an organization in direct exchange for this release, as in simply ransomed. That's pretty hard to imagine. The idea that there was a lot of money paid one or two people who assisted this operation from inside the Farc is much more believable and as I have said, does not in any way negate this as a very bold plan that presented all kinds of horrible possibilities for failure. Of course, we are still waiting to hear how the Farc will present themselves in all this. Remember Emmanuel?

"The future is much like the present, only longer."

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juancegomez says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:24:

Periodista de radio Suiza afirma que se pagó por liberar a los rehenes

El periodista Frederich Blassel, de la Radio Suisse Romande (RSS), afirmó hoy que uno de los dos rebeldes capturados el miércoles en el rescate de quince rehenes de las FARC, supuestamente recibió 20 millones de dólares por entregarlos al Ejército de Colombia, e involucró en el hecho a Estados Unidos.

Blassel declaró a la emisora colombiana La W que la operación llevada a cabo el miércoles, en la que recobraron su libertad la ex candidata presidencial Ingrid Betancourt, tres contratistas estadounidenses y once militares y policías colombianos 'fue un montaje' del gobierno del presidente Alvaro Uribe.

Señaló que la presunta negociación se hizo con el rebelde conocido como 'César', detenido en la operación del miércoles y presentado el jueves a los medios de comunicación en Bogotá.

'No fue una negociación con las FARC directamente, sino con una persona muy importante de esa organización que es el 'comandante Cesar'', afirmó el periodista suizo, que no quiso identificar a su fuente.

Blaseel señaló que la fuente le aseguro que Estados Unidos patrocinó el supuesto pago al guerrillero, debido a que entre los rehenes estaban tres estadounidenses.

Además de Betancourt, secuestrada en el 2002 por las Fuerzas Armadas revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC) y que también es francesa, en la operación fueron rescatados los contratistas estadounidenses Keith Stansell, Thomas Howes y Marc Gonsalves.

Pero de acuerdo con la versión transmitida por la emisora estatal suiza RSS, Stansell, Howes y Gonsalves, secuestrados en 2003 mientras recogían información sobre cultivos de drogas en las selvas colombianas del Caquetá, en el sur del país, eran presuntamente miembros de la Oficina Federal de Investigaciones (FBI).

De acuerdo con Blassel, 'los tres contratistas norteamericanos trabajaban para el FBI y fueron cedidos a la DEA (Departamento Estadounidense Antidroga) para que realizaran un trabajo y por eso el interés de esa nación (EEUU) era muy alto en recuperar a esos ciudadanos'.

Añadió que 'el contacto con el 'comandante César' se estableció a través de su novia, que fue capturada hace unos cuatro meses por el Ejército'.

'Si la gente supiera que esta operación fue un montaje detrás de una negociación, no le importaría, porque Uribe sale como el triunfador y en todo caso queda como el hombre fuerte', expresó.

El portavoz del Ministerio francés de Asuntos Exteriores, Eric Chevallier, negó hoy que su país hubiera pagado un rescate por la liberación de Ingrid Betancourt, que hoy llegó a Francia y fue recibida por el presidente Nicolas Sarkozy.

La Radio Suisse Romande citó hoy a una fuente que no concretó y que calificó de 'fiable', según la cual las FARC recibieron los 20 millones de dólares y que la operación militar de rescate de Betancourt y los otros catorce rehenes sólo fue una farsa en cuyo origen podría estar EEUU.

Chevallier insistió en que Francia no tuvo nada que ver con esa operación militar 'ni con sus modalidades de financiación, si es que hubo esas modalidades de financiación'.



Terra Actualidad - EFE

http://actualidad.terra.es/nacional/articulo/periodista-suiza-radio-af...


Fuerzas Militares no pagaron por rescate de 15 secuestrados
Por: Asdrubal Guerra

07/04/2008 - El comandante de las Fuerzas Militares, general Freddy Padilla de León, rechazó la versión de la radio Suiza Estatal según la cual el gobierno, junto con Estados Unidos, entregó 20 millones de dólares al guerrillero de las Farc alias 'Cesar', para que entregara a los 15 secuestrados.

"Como comandante de las Fuerzas Militares niego que el gobierno de Colombia haya cancelado un solo centavo por esa operación".

El alto oficial explicó que de haber sido así, hubiera sido más benéfico que alias César hubiera recibido el dinero porque eso hubiera significado un golpe a las Farc.

"Le puedo jurar como comandante por mi palabra de honor que para mi resultaría más benéfico que alias 'César' hubiera recibido 20 millones y que hubiera sido más demoledor al interior de las Farc, eso hubiera sido un incentivo

Padilla de León también dijo a la W que el guerrillero infiltrado no era alias 'César', uno de los dos capturados.

De otra parte, el comandante de las Fuerzas Militares descartó que expertos israelíes hayan participado en la operación de rescate tal como lo sugirió la prensa de Israel al señalar que fue coordinada por la empresa Global CST, propiedad del ex jefe de planificación del Estado Mayor israelí, general Israel Ziv, y el general de brigada y antiguo responsable de inteligencia militar, Yosi Kuperwasser.

En tal sentido, el general Padilla de León dijo que conoce al militar Ziv y tiene la certeza de que sus declaraciones a la prensa en Israel fueron en sentido contrario.

"Tenemos una comunicación en donde señala textualmente que Ziv niega haber participado directamente en la operación", reveló Padilla de León al descartar la participación de otros países en la operación de rescate.

http://www.wradio.com.co/nota.asp?id=626591

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SUERTE GRINGO says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:40:

Rebels paid to free hostages - The Australian | July 04, 2008

LEADERS of the Colombian FARC rebel movement were paid millions of dollars to free Colombian politician Ingrid Betancourt and 14 other hostages, Swiss radio has said, quoting "a reliable source".

The 15 hostages released Wednesday by the Colombian army "were in reality ransomed for a high price, and the whole operation afterwards was a set-up," the radio's French-language channel said.

Saying the US, which had three of its citizens among those freed, was behind the deal, it put the price of the ransom at some 20 million dollars.

The radio said its source was "close to the events, reliable and tested many times in recent years.'

The report added said the wife of one of the hostages' guards was the go-between, having been arrested by the Colombian army. She was released to return to the guerrillas, where she persuaded her husband to change sides.

Switzerland, along with France and Spain, has been mediating with the FARC on behalf of Colombian President Alvaro Uribe.

According to the official version of Wednesday's operation, a Colombian army intelligence agent infiltrated the FARC and tricked the rebels into believing their top leader had sent a helicopter to pick up the hostages.

Colombian soldiers posing as FARC guerrillas flew the hostages from a jungle hideout where they had been assembled before revealing their identity.

White House spokeswoman Dana Perino said the rescue "was conceived by the Colombians and executed by the Colombians with our full support," while implying that Washington had provided intelligence and even operational help.

US ambassador to Bogota William Brownfield also told CNN that Washington had provided "technical support," while Colombian Defence Minister Juan Manuel Santos insisted it was a '100 per cent Colombian" effort.

The top US military officer for Latin America, Admiral Jim Stavridis, head of United States Southern Command, said the rescue of Americans Thomas Howes, Marc Gonsalves and Keith Stansell had been "a priority of this command".

The three were seized by the rebels as they conducted an anti-drug mission for the Pentagon in February 2003.

The operation enhanced Mr Uribe's prestige as he seeks a third term in office, and enabled him to stick to his line of no talks with the rebels without the hostages being freed, the radio noted.

“If you're gonna eat your crackers in bed, you're gonna have to sleep with crumbs."

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webmanco says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:42:

I very much doubt it was just money

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Monpirri says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:45:

According to the Internet and from creditable "sources" it was not just money, it was an exchange of political prisoners on both sides...

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

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romy says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:52:

From http://lta.reuters.com/article/domesticNews/idLTAN0436334220080704?pag...
"Estados Unidos anunció que buscará la extradición de los dos jefes guerrilleros, mientras que el comandante del Ejército de Colombia, general Mario Montoya, se mostró de acuerdo con que sean entregados a la justicia estadounidense."
so 5-10 years in 'prison' for drug trafficking...and then they're free in the 'land of freedom'................



Monpirri, who is your `creditable` source? can you post a link?

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Monpirri says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:58:

Since must people here post whatever he or she pleases from the Internet including you, I have done the same I kind off, like going with flow posting BOLOGNA news!

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

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ColombianoGringo says on Jul 4, 2008, 09:59:

I don't see this as any great surprise. It was always stated that the farc had been infiltrated at various levels. The government has also publically stated on many occassions that they would pay rewards from the $100,000,000 fund to anyone who turned in hostages.

However, some articles imply that the "leadership" of the farc was in on the deal. The idea that Cano, Jojoy or the rest of the secretariat would sell their most valuable hostages for $20 million is preposterous. They could make that much from one good coke deal with Chavez' people.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:03:

yo sinceramente ya no se ni que creer ni que pensar

My only wish is that i hope all the other hostages will be free soon and not forgotten and that we will see the end of the Farc and ELN

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:07:

what the shell would someone do with $20 million in the middle of the damn jungle anyways? buy more bananas?

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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romy says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:28:

even with a devalued dollar it's not a bad chunk of change in the U.S.A.

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CatGirl says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:30:

Tejas..bananas are good! jaja - only joking

Love and Time: the only two things that cannot be bought, but only spent

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juancegomez says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:40:

The thing is, apparently it is too much to ask for people to read what the author of the Swiss report is actually saying.

I posted a news story above, in Spanish so I understand not many people will be able to read it since most of you may only speak English, but there it is.

And what is that?

The alleged payment, according to the Swiss journalist and his unspecified source , was not made to FARC as an organization but to "Cesar", the guerrilla who was inside the helicopter.

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:42:

JG - so what does this mean? he goes to jail a rich man?

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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romy says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:43:

the saddest part...'Si la gente supiera que esta operación fue un montaje detrás de una negociación, no le importaría, porque Uribe sale como el triunfador y en todo caso queda como el hombre fuerte'

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juancegomez says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:48:

tejasmarcos: I suppose, but one should probably ask the Swiss journalist who is the source of this claim in the first place.

romy: Assuming the rest of the claim is true, it's hard to argue against that conclusion.

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ColombianoGringo says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:50:

JG, The article in the original post simply states "Unos 20 millones de dólares fueron entregados a los secuestradores," I hadn't see the article you posted that claims that the deal was done specifically with "Cesar". Various other articles and posts have tried to spin this by using the vague term "farc leadership".

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ColombianoGringo says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:52:

Romy, I don't think that anyone with half a brain thought that there wasn't some inside help from the farc on this. However, I doubt that whoever (Cesar or otherwise) did this deal told all his farc buddies about it. I'm sure that rest of the 60 or so farc escorts would have wanted their cut.

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gorgonabob says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:52:

only an idiot would believe some swiss radio station over several presidents, heads of the army, police etc....

is it so hard to believe that the govt pulled off this operation

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:53:

I can tell you from a “reliable source" that it was actually Uribe flying the helicopter and that he single-handedly overpowered César and the other Farc dude…

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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Monpirri says on Jul 4, 2008, 10:58:

and my "reliable source" from Swiss press said that Senator McCain visited Colombia to deliver the 20 mil.

Annette Taddeo for US Congress 2008

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romy says on Jul 4, 2008, 11:15:

Trolling.

Some people just enjoy starting trouble. They'll intentionally post false or controversial material, usually worded in a provocative manner, just to get others to pay attention to them. This is known as"trolling" and is regarded by some as an art form. We disagree. We think it is dull entertainment for simple minds.

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Jul 4, 2008, 11:23:

Sometimes I think I would believe ONE uncommitted journalist more than a head of the state etc....remember the Watergate

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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durito says on Jul 4, 2008, 11:24:

The US gov´t would not under any circumstances permit a ransom to be paid.

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ColombianoGringo says on Jul 4, 2008, 11:28:

durito, Why would you think that? Don't you remember the deal that Reagan made for the Iran hostages?

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 12:01:

"The US gov´t would not under any circumstances permit a ransom to be paid"

- LOL! never underestimate the power of greed, power and corruption. georgie boy and his cronies would love to have more Colombian crude. $20 million is a drop in the bucket. the USA has done far worse things than the FARC has over the last 50 years.... far worse... unfortunately

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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truthspeaker says on Jul 4, 2008, 12:09:

There goes Tejasmarcos talking shits again

Remember, I can only tell the truth. No more Sex Tourism in Colombia.

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durito says on Jul 4, 2008, 12:11:

Of course we (the us govt) have done far worse. My point is that it´s been official US govt policy to not negociate or pay ransom for kidnapping victims for quite some time. They go as far as not permitting familes to pay either.

You´ve seen this in Iraq and Afghanistan -- where S. Korea and Italy have paid ransoms to recover their citizens, the US has not.

It´s a policy I´m not sure where I stand on. Paying the ransom only encourages more kidnapping, but if they had a family member of mine I´d sure want them to be paid.

My question then, is who did they pay? The Colombian gov´t was allready offering FARC commanders millions to turn over the hostages, but that would be different than paying a ransom, as they´d presumably be turning themeselves in as well. If that was the case, I´m not really sure why lie about it.

Otherwise, a ransom doesn´t really make sense. The FARC was never holding these particular hostages for ransom (as they´ve done with so many others). I find it hard to believe that their leadership would give them up for $20 million. They were the only bargaining chips they had. $20 million isn´t going to do anything for them.

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Sam Salmon says on Jul 4, 2008, 12:27:

I'd like to Thank all the brilliantly funny people on this thread-you know who you are you're a delight to read!

One thing of note-the USA is going to be after Cesar for being involved with holding the mercenaries (and who knows what else) -he can expect a long stay in a US jail soon.

' a la orden!'

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tasco66 says on Jul 4, 2008, 12:29:

“he can expect a long stay in a US jail soon"

With those $20 million he will be able to afford one of those luxury jail for the rich…Jajaja

Bravo, Presidente Uribe for the perfect operation!

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 13:51:

tasco - not on those charges more than likely...

durito - not crossing you, just bashing my gov a little..

truth-tweaker - i figured you would be basking in the santa marta sun by now and not geeking behind your computer...

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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ColombianoGringo says on Jul 4, 2008, 13:57:

El Tiempo is reporting that the video of the actual rescue is being show publicly. They don't have it up yet. Anyone that finds a link, please post.

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ColombianoGringo says on Jul 4, 2008, 13:58:

Nix that. Here is the link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jc1YMgvKzy8

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tejasmarcos says on Jul 4, 2008, 14:29:

i'm not a big cusser, but that is fucking awesome!

- nice post, CG

trying to walk a straight line on sour mash and cheap wine...

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miamimike says on Jul 4, 2008, 14:39:

Hell probably get one of those Luxury suite Cells like Piña de Cara Manuel Noriega, Ex Panama Leader has in Miami Fed Lockup. Whoever says money doesn't talk when it comes to Prison Time in the USA has never seen it from the inside. Money Matters, ask Noriega,,,

My Avatar-- Sarah Palin Says " "You know the difference between a pit bull and a hockey mom?? Lipstick!" Now on a Short Verbal Tether by the Honorable John McCain

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dwmte7 says on Jul 5, 2008, 05:05:

nice youtube footage...................

not to throw ice on you would be actors/actresses, directors, etc.....but much to your chagrin, the film has already been made by the nsa sattellites hovering 200 miles above. one spokesperson from nsa--name withheld--was complaining because the dirty fingernails were visible in their footage...........

dwmte

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