BOGOTA, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- At least 26 people were killed during intense clashes between armed factions in Colombia's Guaviare department, the Colombian army said Monday.

Ricardo Roque, commander of the National Army's Fourth Division, told local media that troops recovered 26 bodies in the municipality of El Retorno, following fighting between rival armed factions.

Roque said the army, police, navy and aerospace force are conducting joint operations to regain full control of the area, which spans more than 35,000 square kilometers.

He added that a unified command post has been set up to coordinate security operations and address risks to nearby communities, including possible unexploded devices.

Authorities warned that residents in rural areas remain at risk due to ongoing violence and urged civilians to follow official safety instructions. ■