FARC has gone all-out to eliminate government control in the southern province of Putumayo. FARC hasn't got much choice, they must either desperately fight to maintain some control of this border area, or be wiped out in this corner of the country. FARC is under tremendous pressure in the south, with the army constantly mounting attacks on cocaine refining facilities. These are difficult and expensive to replace, but the army comes in with such overwhelming force, that the rebels have to retreat, or die. Even then, the rebels take losses, in killed or captured men, as they hustle to leave the area.