Armed conflict between Jungle Commando (guerrilla) and the National Army.

The armed conflict lasted from 1986 to 1991. The war revolved around control of eastern Suriname and other areas which were used as cocaine trade hubs. In the period 1986-1989 the fighting was heaviest.

Two Saamaka villages, Pokigron and Wakibasu were burnt down and physical infrastructure (e.g. roads, bridges, government buildings) was destroyed The war impacted Saamaka culture because the position of the Saamaka authorities weakened as the guerilla did not acknowledge these authorities and only they, guns holders, were to be obeyed.