As is a custom here, here's an interesting comment on an older post about captured Colombian rebel leader Simon Trinidad:
Why did Simon Trinidad join La FARC? When I read this question the first thing that came to mind was another communist named Fidel Castro. Castro, the same as Trinidad, had a very comfortable childhood. So now answer this question, why did Fidel Castro leave his wonder life to fight in the Sierra Maestra? Simon Trinidad was an informant for the FARC. He was giving them the balances on accounts, so they would know whom they could extort. I believe, meaning in my own opinion, that he ran when he got discovered. I grew up both in Colombia and here in the US. And when something like this is discovered you better hide. So, I believe that Trinidad did not join the FARC for the same social injustices that Castro fought for. I think it was for other reasons. And why was he helping the FARC when he had worked in the bank? Maybe he was kidnapped, threatened, and brainwashed. Who knows! My Brother-in-law was held by the FARC for 8 months. When he was released he told me that there was an American held with him who was released after a couple of months. When the day came to take him back to civilization he didn't want to go. He wanted to stay and fight with them. So could Trinidad be a victim of Stockholm syndrome?
Posted by Miguel R. at January 16, 2004 07:41 PM
I don't have any answers.
Posted by Walter at January 17, 2004 11:08 AM