Colombia: Car bomb attack at military base in Cucuta leaves at least five people injured June 15

Event

A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated at the military base housing the Colombian army's 30th Brigade in Cucuta, Norte de Santander Department, at about 15:30 June 15. At least five military personnel were injured in the blast. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, the bombing was likely the work of one of the various guerrilla organizations operating within Norte de Santander, including the National Liberation Army (Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional, ELN), People's Liberation Army (Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional, EPL), and factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia, FARC).

Authorities will likely launch a major security operation in Cucuta and the surrounding area in response to the incident.

Advice

Avoid the area of the attack until authorities have completed their investigation and given the all-clear. Keep away from areas where soldiers appear to be deploying or gathering over the coming days. Heed the instructions of security personnel.