According to reporting by Al Jazeera, the use of drones by armed organisations in Colombia has risen sharply in the opening months of 2026, with the number of incidents recorded exceeding twice the total logged for the same period in 2025. The increase has been observed across several departments, including areas traditionally contested by guerrilla and dissident groups.
The surge in unmanned aerial assaults has been linked to a range of factions operating in the country, notably the National Liberation Army (ELN) and remnants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) that have not integrated into the peace process. These groups are reportedly employing commercially available drone technology to deliver explosives, conduct reconnaissance and intimidate local populations.
Colombian authorities have responded by intensifying surveillance and interdiction efforts. The Ministry of Defense confirmed the deployment of additional counter‑drone units and the activation of joint operations with police forces to track the sources of the equipment. Officials have also called for stricter regulation of drone sales and heightened border controls to curb the flow of components.
The heightened activity has prompted concern among civilian communities and local officials. Municipal leaders in affected regions have reported damage to infrastructure, including power lines and agricultural facilities, as well as injuries to civilians in a handful of incidents. While no large‑scale casualties have been reported, the psychological impact of the attacks is described as “significant” by regional authorities.
International observers have noted that the trend reflects a broader pattern of armed groups in Latin America adapting low‑cost technology to sustain their operations. Analysts cited by Al Jazeera suggest that the accessibility of off‑the‑shelf drones enables insurgents to conduct attacks with minimal logistical footprints, complicating traditional counter‑insurgency strategies.
The Colombian government has indicated that it will seek additional technical assistance from partner nations to enhance its counter‑drone capabilities. In a recent statement, the president’s office underscored the need for a coordinated response that balances security measures with the protection of civil liberties.
As the situation develops, Al Jazeera will continue to monitor the frequency of drone‑related incidents and the effectiveness of governmental countermeasures, noting that the escalation underscores ongoing challenges to Colombia’s internal security landscape.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Al Jazeera — All News — original source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/9/18/drone-attacks-by-colombian-armed-groups-more-than-double-in-early-2026?traffic_source=rss.