Colombian Navy officials confirmed that a drone loaded with explosives struck a military vessel navigating the Naya River on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of three soldiers and injuring four others. This attack marks a significant escalation in the violence plaguing Colombia, which is currently witnessing its most severe turmoil since the peace agreement with the FARC guerrilla group was signed in 2016.
The incident took place in a rural area near Buenaventura, Colombia’s primary port on the Pacific coast, while troops were on routine patrol. The injured soldiers were promptly airlifted to medical facilities in Buenaventura for urgent care, underscoring the ongoing dangers faced by military personnel amid rising tensions.
Authorities suspect that a dissident faction of the FARC, led by Ivan Mordisco, is responsible for the drone assault. Mordisco is a former mid-level commander who has notably rejected the peace deal established over seven years ago. In recent times, this faction has been linked to several deadly drone attacks, highlighting a worrying trend in the resurgence of violence.
The current administration, led by leftist President Gustavo Petro, initially sought to engage Mordisco in peace negotiations. However, these discussions faltered in 2024, culminating in Mordisco’s withdrawal after a year of negotiations, leaving the region in a precarious state and contributing to the overall spike in violence.
This incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges Colombia faces in stabilizing the country and reinforcing security amidst the re-emergence of armed groups exploiting the ongoing strife. The impact of such violence is deeply felt not only within military ranks but also among civilians in affected areas, as communities grapple with increasing instability.
