Explosive-laden drones struck an army base in Ocaña, with the president blaming a rebel group.
Two Colombian soldiers were killed and five injured when approximately twenty explosive-laden drones attacked an army garrison in Ocaña, Norte de Santander. Authorities announced the Friday, September 4th attack, which President Abelardo de la Espriella attributed to the National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrilla group. The strike targeted the El Trapiche military barracks around seven twenty in the evening local time, damaging military infrastructure and a helicopter.
President de la Espriella, who took office on August 7th, vowed to use the full force of the state against the ELN, specifically naming the Camilo Torres Restrepo Front. This incident occurs amidst ongoing counter-guerrilla operations in the Catatumbo region, a known stronghold for the ELN and FARC dissidents. The president's administration has intensified military actions against armed groups since his inauguration.
The attack follows a September 1st bombing in Guaviare department that reportedly killed twenty FARC dissidents, according to Colombian authorities. President de la Espriella has pledged a new security strategy for the Catatumbo region, signaling a firm stance against armed factions operating in the border area with Venezuela.
Why it mattersThe attack on a military garrison and subsequent government response directly impact security and stability in Colombia, potentially affecting investor confidence and trade.
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