Armed group strikes back in Colombia
The gist
The ELN attacked a Colombian military base with drones, killing 4 soldiers and wounding 44 in Bolívar.
The strike follows a government offensive against armed groups in the south.
How it unfolded
- Nov 1, 2026Unidentified assailants fired rockets made from gas cylinders at a military base in Planadas, Tolima province; some struck a nearby hospital and homes, killing four civilians including a 2-month-old baby and injuring at least 18.
- Nov 2, 2026President Abelardo de la Espriella confirmed the attack killed four civilians, including a 2-month-old baby.
- Nov 3, 2026Colombia announced a new military offensive against illegal armed groups after seven attacks in six days in the south, ordering more than 160 special forces soldiers to Planadas.
Key terms
- ELN
- Colombian far-left guerrilla organization founded in 1964, classified as a terrorist group by several governments.
- asymmetric warfare
- Type of war between belligerents whose military power, strategy, or tactics differ significantly.
- international humanitarian law
- Branch of international law regulating wartime conduct to limit effects of armed conflict and protect non-combatants.
Source: Wikipedia