these actions they fear are only likely to backfire, sowing misinstruction and fear. but criminals can be seen openly wielding their guns an area that according to the government, serves as a base for gangs and columbian par military who kidnap, extort, and rob vehicles. >> i have been personally instructed directly by the president and commander from the phase, the he has instructed us to extend operations to all the countries. massive detentions have been denounced by human rights groups there is no gray area and these types of operations have never proven effective. this eyewitness questions not so much the methods be uh the police. >> the police have lost access to the area, they had to do this huge operation with helicopters and tanks and even so, the bands are still there operating. arm gangs have threatened retaliation. that is also something they can't stop talking about. al jazeera caracas. >> in mexico, at least 23 people have been killed after a truck crashed into a group of pill grams. the truck was carrying building materials when it hit the people as the