Three Colombian soldiers killed in ELN drone attack

The Colombian army announced on Saturday that at least three soldiers were killed and four others wounded following an attack involving explosives dropped from drones, followed by a clash inside a military compound in the municipality of Ocaña, Norte de Santander. Local authorities attributed the late Friday attack to the rebel National Liberation Army (ELN). Two soldiers died at the scene, while a third succumbed to injuries after receiving medical attention. President Abelardo de la Espriella condemned the attack, stating that the state would bring its full legitimate force against the perpetrators. The ELN, active since 1964, operates largely in the Catatumbo region, a strategic area bordering Venezuela that is a primary site for coca production and a hub for various armed factions, including dissident groups from the defunct FARC.