Colombian judge lifts ban on govt strikes against guerrillas

A Colombian judge on Wednesday lifted a ban on airstrikes on guerrillas, which had been suspended to protect minors but may now proceed with "caution," a ruling seen by AFP stated.

Newly appointed President Abelardo de la Espriella has ordered a series of attacks on guerrilla camps to make good on his promise of flushing out the country's armed groups.

Six minors were killed in bombings that have taken place since he took power in August, according to the national forensics authority.

On September 2, a Bogota court had ordered the temporary suspension of airstrikes against rebel camps throughout the country, according to a document obtained by AFP on Wednesday.

Attacks may now resume, but with "a reinforced standard of precaution" when "there is certain, objective or reasonably verifiable information about the presence of boys, girls, or adolescents" recruited by guerrillas, it stated.

Operations remain suspended in the Amazonian Guaviare department until a regional judge issues a ruling in a separate case.

Rights groups warn that children and teens are increasingly being recruited by armed groups through slick social media campaigns.

Colombia's ombudsman reported 428 cases of child recruitment by these groups last year.

Minors also died in bombings carried out by previous administrations under leftist Gustavo Petro and right-winger Ivan Duque.