NCJ Number
121233
Date Published
1988
Length
43 pages
Annotation
This analysis examines the unique characteristics of Latin America and the ideology, political objectives, structure, tactics, sources of support, and international linkages of the terrorist groups in the region.
Abstract
Terrorist groups in different countries in Latin America freely exchange logistics, tactics, and training, although they adapt their methods to fit their particular situations, regions, and adversaries. Individual groups include the Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front in El Salvador; the Sandinista National Liberation Front; the April 19 Movement in Colombia; Alfaro Lives, Dammit in Ecuador; and Shining Path. These groups tend to be nationalist revolutionaries with Marxist ideologies. They experience high success rates against targets with low security, but their success declines as security levels increase. Thus, they usually focus their attacks against poorly defended civilian targets. They also use propaganda constantly and conduct actions for their publicity value as well as for tactical gain. Their goal is to discredit the government. These groups are active, accounting for 19 percent of groups and 42 percent of incidents in the world in 1985, and are likely to become more sophisticated in the future. 19 reference notes.