Colombia’s president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has initiated a broad military campaign against the ELN and FARC dissident factions in the department of Arauca, intensifying efforts to dismantle armed groups in a conflict-ridden area. The strategy combines increased troop deployments, intelligence gathering, and tighter border controls to disrupt the groups’ operations and funding streams.
During a public address, De la Espriella tied the operation to recent security failures, including the kidnapping of five people, among them two employees of Colombia’s Technical Investigation Corps (CTI). He insisted on the immediate release of the hostages and directed the Gaula unit to accelerate rescue operations. The government ruled out any negotiations with the kidnappers, affirming that military actions would continue until the victims were freed.
The president framed the campaign as a response to armed groups’ territorial control, drug trafficking networks, and the recruitment of minors. His administration will target financial networks supporting these groups, along with their leadership and supply chains. Expanded land and river patrols along Arauca’s borders aim to block contraband and drug routes, while local authorities were instructed to align policies with national security priorities.
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De la Espriella also condemned the use of children by armed factions, pledging to safeguard education access instead of their involvement in violence. He warned that any collaboration with narcoterrorist organizations would undermine stability efforts in the region.
This offensive represents a shift in De la Espriella’s handling of Arauca, where the ELN and FARC remnants have retained influence despite earlier peace initiatives. While exact timelines and troop numbers remain undisclosed, the emphasis on financial disruption and border security indicates a sustained approach rather than a temporary military surge.
The president’s speech mentioned the National Security Council and the Milagro de las Regiones program, which delivers infrastructure projects to affected areas. These initiatives are positioned as tools to secure local support alongside military operations.
