IED event in Colombia on Mon 31st August 2026

On 31 August 2026, in Los Patios (Norte de Santander), ELN members detonated a car bomb outside the local police station headquarters, severely damaging the building and multiple private houses and businesses nearby. The explosion killed a Venezuelan civilian bystander and injured seven police officers and eight civilians. According to authorities, the vehicle contained 80 kilograms of ammonal. Days later, the ELN issued a statement claiming responsibility for the attack and criticizing President Abelardo de la Espriella's hardline stance and his decision to rule out the possibility of dialogue with the armed group. 1 fatality.