Latin American Kidnappings: Assassinations and Terrorism

Abstract

Chapter V has examined several cases of “successful” diplonappings in which the kidnappers’ demands were fully met, a few situations in which apparent kidnapping attempts were made and failed, and at least two cases of kidnappings in which the hostages were released even though the host governments did not accede to the kidnappers’ demands. Despite the latter, two recent cases have demonstrated dramatically the dangers inherent in no-ransom policies pursued in a political milieu of revolution and terrorism. It is essential to recognize that the effectiveness of diplonapping as a terrorist weapon is dependent upon an atmosphere of political turmoil and an attitude of psychological doubt. If the governments concerned could predict the exact reaction of terrorist groups to a refusal to accept their terms, the uncertainty which has frequently led to submission would be removed. The authorities could then respond either to the reality of the threat or to its emptiness and react accordingly. Unfortunately, that element of uncertainty has been increased, rather than lessened, by the von Spreti and Mitrione murders in Guatemala and Uruguay respectively in 1970.