Pope condemns killing of 11 Colombian lawmakers by guerrilla forces

Published: 2007-07-02

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI condemned the killing of 11 Colombian lawmakers by guerrilla forces and urged the release of all those held hostage in the country. The deputies were shot and killed after being held for more than five years by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known by its Spanish acronym FARC. The rebels said the victims were killed in crossfire during an attack on their camp. The pope, speaking at his noon blessing in St. Peter's Square July 1, called the slayings a "barbaric" act in a country torn by "fratricidal hatred." He said he shared in the deep sorrow of relatives of the victims. "I renew my heartfelt appeal that all kidnappings cease immediately and that all the victims of this inadmissible form of violence be returned to their loved ones," he said. Church officials in Colombia also denounced the killing of the deputies.

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