The US Issues Alert Over Risk of ELN Drone Attacks in Northern Colombia

The United States Department of State has issued an alert regarding an increased risk of drone attacks by illegal armed groups, particularly the ELN, in northern Colombia. This warning was issued just days before the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, was set to visit Barranquilla, the capital of the Caribbean region. The embassy also noted that the ELN is designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the United States.

Throughout 2026, various incidents have been reported, including an attack in July at a police substation in Pailitas where five officers were injured, and another in August in Curumani and San Roque that resulted in one officer's death. Additionally, attacks in August in the south of Cesar caused injuries to several soldiers. US citizens are advised to stay vigilant, avoid confrontations with armed individuals, and remain informed through local media.

The Department of State also urges citizens to avoid gatherings, protests, and areas prone to public disorder. Furthermore, travel advisories advise against visiting certain regions due to crime and terrorism risks, as well as areas within 10 kilometers of the Colombia-Venezuela border. Concurrently, the Colombian government announced a security plan for Cesar, deploying anti-drone protection systems in several municipalities, including El Copey, Curumani, La Jagua de Ibirico, and Pelaya.

This response comes in the aftermath of drone attacks by criminal gangs in northern Colombia, prompting heightened security measures to protect critical infrastructure.