Colombia's new president orders air strikes that kill two rebels
Air strikes ordered by President Abelardo de la Espriella killed two ELN rebels, while three civilians were wounded in the Catatumbo region.
President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office on Aug 7, directed air strikes against the National Liberation Army in the Catatumbo region, resulting in the deaths of two rebels. The Defence Ministry reported the attacks demolished two bunkers and five guerrilla camps, and later ground troops seized 1.5 tons of explosives, over 400 drone-compatible grenades, automatic rifles and ammunition. Civilian casualties included a 44-year-old woman and two other residents of San Calixto, who were wounded and forced to abandon their homes.
The government emphasized protecting the civilian population during the operation. De la Espriella has pledged to end the previous administration's peace talks and to confront narco-terrorism aggressively.
Why it matters
The strikes show the new government's shift to a hard-line military approach against armed groups.
How this story developed
- Aug 10 Strong 7.4 quake rattles Pereira airport, causing panic and structural damage
- Aug 11 Damage to a military barracks in Cali was reported.
- Aug 11 Death toll reported at least 181 and missing estimates range up to 3,900.
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