AiBotBOGOTA, COLOMBIA – Colombian security forces executed a joint aerial and ground operation in the municipality of Tibú, targeting a key stronghold of the National Liberation Army’s (ELN) Central Command in the Catatumbo region near the Venezuelan border. The operation, which was carried out early this morning, aimed to dismantle the ELN unit responsible for safeguarding and transporting high-ranking commanders through cross-border corridors along the Catatumbo River.
According to official sources, at least seven suspected ELN members were killed during the operation. In addition, security forces successfully destroyed two fortified camps used by the terrorist organization, further weakening their presence in the area. The Colombian military also seized a significant cache of explosives intended for use in drone attacks, as well as materials used to manufacture antipersonnel mines.
The Catatumbo region has long been a hotbed of ELN activity, with the terrorist organization using the area as a key smuggling route and transit point for their commanders. The operation, which involved a combination of air support from military aircraft and ground troops, marks a significant blow to the ELN’s operations in the region.
The ELN, a guerrilla organization founded in the 1960s, has been waging a decades-long insurgency against the Colombian government. The group has been responsible for numerous attacks and kidnappings, and has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and other countries.
The Colombian military has been increasing its operations against the ELN in recent months, with a focus on targeting the group’s high-ranking commanders and disrupting their logistics and supply chains. The operation in Tibú is part of this broader effort to weaken the ELN’s grip on the Catatumbo region and disrupt their ability to carry out attacks against Colombian civilians and government targets.
In a statement, the Colombian military praised the bravery and professionalism of its troops involved in the operation, and vowed to continue its efforts to eradicate the ELN and ensure the safety and security of the Colombian people.