Colombian government reports three killed in rebel attack on military post

What the report says

Colombian authorities said at least three soldiers were killed and several others wounded in an attack on a military post in the municipality of Ocana, in Norte de Santander near the Venezuelan border. The government blamed the rebel National Liberation Army, or ELN, for the assault, which took place overnight into Saturday. Officials said the attack involved drones dropping explosives on the compound before fighting spread inside the site.

According to the report, two soldiers died during the clashes and a third later died after receiving medical care. Four others were injured. AFP, cited by Al Jazeera, reported that an unnamed security official said the attackers may have used at least 20 explosive-laden drones, though that figure was not independently confirmed in the article.

The incident comes as Colombia continues to face violence from armed groups in regions such as Catatumbo, where the ELN has a presence and where the government has carried out military operations. The article also noted that the attack followed the inauguration of President Abelardo de la Espriella, who has vowed a harder military response to armed groups. In a social media statement, he condemned the attack and said the state would respond with full force. The report adds broader context that violence by armed groups and debate over security policy remain central issues in Colombia, especially in border and conflict-affected areas.