United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC)

Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia (AUC), commonly known as the "paramilitaries."

AUC paramilitaries have had a strong presence in the northern Colombian departments of Antioquia, Cordoba, Sucre and Bolivar, though they also have operated in other northern and southwestern Colombian states.

AUC was formed to fight the leftist FARC and ELN rebel groups.

Estimates of AUC strength have ranged from 7,000 to 30,000 paramilitaries, including former rebel and military personnel. All members...