Security Alert: ELN Announces “Armed Strike” in Colombia (December 14-17)
Location: Colombia
Event: Members of the illegal armed group Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, have announced an “armed strike” in Colombia beginning Sunday, December 14 at 6AM and ending Wednesday, December 17 at 6AM. The ELN has warned civilians to avoid traveling by roads and navigable rivers and to avoid military groups. The ELN is reported to be most active in the northeast (Arauca, Norte de Santander/Catatumbo), west (Chocó), and southwest (Cauca, Nariño), with strongholds along the Venezuela border and presence in Antioquia, Bolívar, and Valle del Cauca. The State Department reminds U.S. citizens not to travel to Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments or the Colombia-Venezuela border region, and reconsider travel to all other areas.
Actions to Take:
The State Department’s current Travel Advisory for Colombia states that U.S. citizens should not travel to Arauca, Cauca (excluding Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments or the Colombia-Venezuela border region and should reconsider travel to all other areas.
- Do not confront guerillas or armed individuals
- Maintain a high level of vigilance
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Keep a low profile
- Avoid crowds
- Monitor local media for security updates
Assistance:
U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444
