Escalating Colombia Military Violence
Explosive Drone Attack on Military Compound Kills Three Soldiers in Colombia
Anonymous
Key Points
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A military source told AFP that at least 20 drones loaded with explosives were used in the attack.
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The attack occurred as the government was conducting military operations against guerrillas in the Catatumbo region, amid a broader escalation in which Colombia is facing its worst violence in a decade.
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President Abelardo de la Espriella has intensified bombings and ground operations against armed groups since taking office, according to AFP.
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Colombia has joined the Shield of the Americas, a U.S.-backed anti-cartel alliance that includes Argentina, Ecuador and El Salvador.
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U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet President de la Espriella in Barranquilla the following week.
A coordinated drone attack followed by gunfire killed at least three Colombian soldiers Friday in Ocaña, near the Venezuelan border. Rio Times reported that at least 20 explosive-laden drones struck the military compound, triggering a fierce firefight. President Abelardo de la Espriella blamed the National Liberation Army (ELN), a leftist rebel group, and vowed to strike back with full force.
The assault occurred as Colombia battles its worst violence in a decade. Competing guerrilla factions fight for control of the coca-rich Catatumbo region, which straddles the border with Venezuela. The violence underscores the challenge facing President de la Espriella, who has ramped up military operations since taking office.
Twenty Drones Loaded With Explosives Strike Military Base
Rio Times cited military sources confirming that approximately 20 drones carrying explosives attacked the compound near Ocaña. The initial drone barrage was followed by direct ground assault and sustained gunfire. Four soldiers were also wounded in the clash. Some local reports lowered the death toll to two soldiers and five wounded, but the defense ministry stuck with the higher figure.
ELN Rebels Blamed for Attack in Coca-Producing Region
The National Liberation Army, a major leftist guerrilla group, claimed responsibility. Daily Tribunal reported that the ELN has battled rival dissident FARC factions for territorial control in Catatumbo. Recent months have seen a spike in attacks targeting police facilities and military positions across the region. The violence reflects competition for lucrative drug trafficking routes.
Escalating Military Operations Under New President
President de la Espriella has intensified bombings and ground operations since taking office, according to Rio Times. Colombia has joined Shield of the Americas, a U.S.-backed anti-cartel alliance that includes Argentina, Ecuador, and El Salvador. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was scheduled to meet with de la Espriella the following week in Barranquilla to discuss joint security efforts.
Colombia Faces Worst Violence in a Decade
The Ocaña attack is part of a broader escalation gripping Colombia. Armed groups have exploited weak state presence in remote regions, using drones and advanced tactics previously associated with cartel operations. The Friday assault demonstrates how guerrilla factions have adapted militarily and now possess weaponized drone capabilities once thought limited to organized crime.
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