Polls have opened under heavy security in Colombia for congressional elections. 

More than 150,000 troops have been mobilized to protect voters against threats from the leftist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The enormous security presence follows a recent increase in violence in the wake of a breakdown in peace talks last month between the government and FARC. 

Shortly after casting his vote in Bogota, President Andres Pastrana said Colombians will defeat terrorism with their ballots. 

Rebel groups have urged the country's 24 million voters to boycott the election, saying candidates will not work in favor of the people. In some regions FARC guerrillas also have said those who vote will be considered military targets. 

There were no early reports of violence or disruptions at polling stations. 

More than 260 seats are to be filled in both chambers of the legislature. But opinion polls indicate Colombians are largely apathetic about the Congress, which has been plagued by corruption scandals. A report by the government prosecutor's office shows 100 of the candidates have criminal records. 

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

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