Report from the officer tasked with protecting the merchants

 

[Report from the officer tasked with protecting the merchants] 

Dear governors,

The situation with bandits is still evolving and not in our favour. Some of the Llaneros in the Apure region have decided to throw their lot in with the bandits, operating near Moitaco but retreating to the West, when met with resistance. Their skill on horseback is unparalleled and they are very knowledgeable on the terrain, as such, it is difficult for our men to fend them off as they launch quick attacks and immediately retreat before the troops can prepare for combat. In addition, they target isolated farms and villages which makes it near impossible for unmounted troops to respond fast enough.

In recent engagements, we have lost 10 men, with many more that suffer some kind of injury, it appears that the troops under my command cannot deal with mounted bandits as they refuse to give us a proper battle. Merchants, while protected, fear that the lack of effectiveness of our strategy will soon impact them as well and are once again asking for your support.

However, recent reconnaissance from the men sent by Juan Manuel Valdes has managed to find a bandit hideout in El dorado. They occupy a small village and recruit from the local population. While the Llaneros probably do not come from there, it a good starting point to root out the bandit problem. Governor Valdes' provided troops for an assault and his infantry is rready to engage at a moments notice.

Lieutenant Ricardo Armano de la Rosa