Colombian Army Base Attacked by Drone, Resulting in Three Fatalities and 16 Injuries

Colombian President de la Espriella Vows Retaliation After Drone Attack on Military Base

A drone attack on a military base in northern Colombia has resulted in three soldier fatalities and at least 16 injuries, according to the country’s armed forces. The incident occurred at a base in Santa Rosa del Sur, a small town located in the foothills of the San Lucas mountain range.

The Colombian military released a statement confirming the attack and stating that it targeted the base. Authorities have not yet identified those responsible for the strike, which is part of a series of attacks on security forces across rural areas.

The area where the attack took place is rich in gold mines and has been disputed by various rebel armed groups, including the Gulf Clan, National Liberation Army (ELN), and smaller factions led by former members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).

President Abelardo de la Espriella responded to the incident on X, stating that those responsible will “have nowhere to hide.” He also emphasized the government’s resolve to defend Colombia.

The president has taken a confrontational approach since taking office in August, including increased air strikes and troop deployments. The government argues that armed groups have used ceasefires granted by previous governments to consolidate their control over rural areas.

In recent weeks, there have been several incidents of attacks on military bases and police stations, resulting in civilian casualties. According to ACLED, a group monitoring armed conflicts, there was a 9% increase in attacks with bombs or explosives in Colombia between October 1 and October 16 compared to the same period last year.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the government and rebel groups in rural areas of Colombia.

Source: Al Jazeera