At least eight people died in the south-west Colombian Cauca department after heavy fighting broke out between FARC rebels and the army, Caracol Radio reported Thursday evening.
At least one indigenous leaders was killed when civilians were caught in the crossfire. It is unknown whether the other seven casualties were FARC guerrillas or civilians.
A number of villagers were taken to nearby hospitals after panic broke out in the village of Tacueyo and several people were trampled.
The indigenous governor of Tacueyo condemned fighting in the middle of a populated area and warned that civilians continue to be used by armed groups as human shields.
The region where the fighting took place is considered a FARC stronghold where combat takes place regularly.
