BOGOTÁ — Colombian security forces continued operations against armed groups in several regions linked to drug trafficking routes and coca production areas, authorities said on Monday, as the government maintained pressure on organizations including the National Liberation Army (ELN), dissident factions of the former FARC guerrillas and the Clan del Golfo.
The Colombian military and police reported a series of recent operations in departments including Cauca, La Guajira, Chocó and the Catatumbo region, areas that have long been affected by armed violence and illicit economies. Officials said the operations targeted armed structures accused of involvement in drug trafficking, extortion and attacks on security forces.
In southern Cauca, police and army units conducted a joint operation against an ELN structure, according to local authorities. Officials said the action was intended to weaken the group's logistical and armed capabilities in an area where security forces have reported persistent violence. Details regarding arrests or casualties were not immediately available.
In La Guajira, the army said an operation against suspected ELN members led to the seizure of weapons, explosives and ammunition. Military officials also reported the recovery of a minor during the operation. Authorities said one suspected member of the group was killed, while another was injured and received medical attention.
Separately, Colombian forces carried out operations against the Clan del Golfo in Chocó department, where military officials said a strike targeted a camp used by the armed group. Authorities reported that weapons and communications equipment were seized during the operation. Independent verification of military casualty claims was not immediately available.
The government has said drug trafficking remains a principal source of financing for armed organizations. Police and military officials reported earlier this month that more than 500 tonnes of cocaine had been seized during the first half of 2026 through operations across the country. Authorities said the seizures were part of efforts to disrupt trafficking networks and reduce revenues flowing to illegal groups.
Security challenges persist despite government initiatives aimed at reducing violence through negotiations and localized peace processes. Human rights organizations and security analysts have reported that several armed groups continue to exert influence in remote regions where state presence remains limited and illicit economies provide significant sources of income.
"We will continue operations to protect communities and weaken criminal structures," military commanders said in statements released following recent operations.
As of Tuesday, Colombian authorities said operations against armed groups were continuing in multiple regions. Officials have not announced major changes to the current security strategy, and further operational updates are expected in the coming days.
