The training, preparedness, and quick response of National Army soldiers made it possible to save the life of a minor who had been recruited by the ELN armed group and was wounded during a military operation in the department of La Guajira.
The operation, carried out by the 1st Air Defense Artillery Battalion, part of the 10th Brigade, in conjunction with the Colombian Aerospace Force and in coordination with the National Police and the Attorney General’s Office, took place in the area known as Los Corazones, in the municipality of Maicao, La Guajira, against the 6th of December Front of the ELN, an organized armed group, where a firefight ensued, resulting in the death of an individual, an alleged explosives expert and sniper for this group, during military operations.
During the military operation, another alleged member of the armed group, who was a minor, was also wounded. The platoon’s military medic provided immediate care in the area of operations, managed to stabilize him, and administered first aid before evacuating him to a medical facility in the department, where he is currently receiving specialized medical care and his condition remains serious.
At the scene, authorities seized a long-barreled rifle, a pistol, two improvised explosive devices, two detonators for these devices, 338 rounds of ammunition of various calibers, and a magazine.
It is important to note that the 6th of December Front is believed to be responsible for the terrorist attack carried out against the 6th Mechanized Infantry Battalion in Riohacha on May 27. It is also attributed with orchestrating attacks on railway infrastructure and its alleged involvement in various kidnappings in the region.
This operational success significantly impacts the logistical, military, and terrorist capabilities of this illegal group, reducing its capacity for criminal activity and contributing to the strengthening of security and stability for the residents of the department of La Guajira.
The National Army reaffirms its commitment to protecting the civilian population, respecting human rights, and conducting sustained and decisive military operations to neutralize threats from organized armed groups and preserve peace in communities across northern Colombia.
