At least three Colombian soldiers have been killed and four others injured after an armed attack targeted a military compound in Ocaña, in the northeastern department of Norte de Santander near the Venezuelan border. Colombian authorities have blamed the National Liberation Army (ELN) for the assault, which reportedly involved drones dropping explosives on the military facility.
Drone Attack Followed by Fighting at Military Compound
The attack occurred late Friday in Ocaña, a municipality located in the conflict-affected Catatumbo region. Colombian military officials said explosives were dropped onto the compound using drones before clashes broke out inside the facility.
Two soldiers died during the fighting, while another succumbed to his injuries after receiving medical treatment. Four additional soldiers were reported wounded. Colombian authorities said the assault was carried out by the ELN, an armed group that has operated in the country for decades.
An AFP report cited by authorities said an unnamed security official estimated that as many as 20 drones carrying explosives may have been used. That figure has not been independently confirmed.
President Promises Strong Response
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella condemned the attack and pledged a forceful government response against those responsible. His administration has taken a tougher position toward armed groups and criminal organisations operating across Colombia.
The latest violence comes amid continuing attacks in northeastern Colombia, where security forces are conducting operations against armed groups. The Catatumbo area has become a major centre of conflict because of its strategic location along the Venezuelan border and competition over territory and illicit economies.
Violence Continues in Colombia’s Catatumbo Region
The ELN has maintained a significant presence in Catatumbo, while dissident factions of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) also operate in the wider area. The groups have competed for control of territory and influence in a region known for coca cultivation.
The Ocaña attack follows other recent incidents in northeastern Colombia. In August, an explosion outside a police station in Cúcuta injured 11 officers and killed a police dog. Earlier in the same week, a car bomb attack outside another police station left at least one person dead and 11 others injured. Authorities also attributed those incidents to armed groups.
