Images of Colombian soldiers held captive by locals in guerrilla-held region | AFP

In uniform, some of the 57 Colombian soldiers held captive by residents of a southwestern region appear silent, sheltered from the rain in a soaked courtyard. Authorities announced their release by the army, supported by police forces, who also arrested several "alleged captors." The area, known as the Micay Canyon, is a stronghold of guerrilla groups and cocaine production. In conflict‑ridden regions of Colombia, some illegal groups at times order civilians to carry out actions to impede the advance of security forces. They are usually released hours later after the intervention of human rights organizations.