Colombian rebels confirm French Foreign Legion soldier alive after abduction

José Olger Melo Charry was seized on August 6 while traveling through Nariño province in Colombia's southwest region. The Colombian national, who serves with France's Foreign Legion, was taken by an armed group operating in the volatile border area.

The rebel organization holding Charry released a statement confirming he remains alive, though details about his condition and location were not disclosed. The confirmation comes as authorities and intermediaries continue efforts to secure his release through diplomatic channels.

Nariño province has long been a stronghold for various illegal armed groups involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The region's remote terrain and limited government presence make it a challenging area for rescue operations.

The French government has been engaged in communications regarding Charry's situation. Officials in both France and Colombia have appealed for his safe release, emphasizing the urgency of resolving the case through peaceful means.

Foreign fighters, including those serving in foreign militaries, have occasionally been targeted for kidnapping in Colombian conflict zones, either for ransom, political leverage, or recruitment into armed groups.