In January 1994 a massacre occurred in a squatters' barrio of Apartado, La Chinita. Thirty seven people were murdered in cold blood, and a squad of FARC guerrillas was implicated in the killings of apparent political rivals (former EPL guerrillas and supporters) -- as well as the complicity of the Colombian military authorities in permitting it to occur (all normal guard patrols were pulled away from the area before the massacre). The Colombian military used this massacre as a 'fishing expedition' to round up approx. a hundred political activists, mainly associated with the strong Patriotic Union 3rd party. Major targets were the political leadership in the area, including former mayor Jose Antonio Lopez-Bula (who was then candidate for national political office), and the mayor Nelson Campo. They were arrested under the draconian Faceless Justice system, which meant they had very little chance to defend themselves. Due Process was thrown out the door. They have remained in prison since then, despite most of the other arrested people have been released. Msgr. Isias Duarte, then Bishop of Apartado, now Archbishop of Cali, stated publicly his belief in Lopez-Bula's innocence. In addition, witnesses against them were under military control, and stated as much on video tape which the Faceless Judge refused to admit into evidence. In the next few days, the fate of these two men will be determined. The Colombian Attorney General's office (Procuraduria) has issued its determination that they are innocent. But without strong support, particularly from the outside world, there is no guarantee that they will be found innocent and released by the Judge in Medellin. Please send a short fax immediately! Sample letter: Se–or Juez Regional de Medellin Medellin, Colombia FAX : 011 57 4 331 4858 I am aware that at this time the case against Jose Antonio Lopez-Bula and Nelson Campo for the alleged crimes of aggravated homicide and rebellion are being decided. I am convinced of the innocence of these two accused men and know that they have worked hard in pursuit of peace and development in Uraba and in Colombia. I am aware of convincing evidence which demonstrates that they are innocent of the crimes with which they are charged. I know that the Colombian Attorney General 's office has issued its determination in this case finding that they are innocent. I hope that the final decision will be eminently based upon the law and that their innocence will be recognized and their immediate release from prison will be decreed. Sincerely --------------------------- Please fax a Copy to the Medellin newspaper El Colombiano 011 57 4 331 9775 Also please email or fax a copy to Colombia Support Network csn@igc.apc.org fax 608 255-6621