=====================================
The United Auto-Defense groups of
Colombia (AUC), which represents some
20 far right-wing paramilitary groups,
also said Saturday that they had no
links with the armed forces or drug
traffickers, as is widely believed.
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AGENCE FRANCE PRESSE

Sunday, 10 May 1998


Paramilitary groups want US to help solve Colombia crisis 
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BOGOTA -- An umbrella organization for Colombian paramilitary groups said 
they would like to see the United States help find a negotiated settlement 
to Colombia's ongoing internal conflict. 

The United Auto-Defense groups of Colombia (AUC), which represents some 
20 far right-wing paramilitary groups, also said Saturday that they had no 
links with the armed forces or drug traffickers, as is widely believed. 

Details of the AUC proposal were contained in a letter written by AUC 
leader Carlos Castano, who is wanted by the authorities, to US ambassador 
Curtis Kahmann.

The letter was made public by Radio Caracol news station. 

The group warns in the letter that they will continue to fight leftist 
guerrillas, and that they will lay down their arms only when their rivals 
make it clear that they will end fighting against the government. 

The AUC admits that its members have violated human rights, but are 
emphatic in denying any links with drug lords or the government. 

Copyright 1998 Agence France Presse