Colombia orders temporary militarization of Cúcuta following surge in violence

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella ordered the temporary militarization of Cúcuta on Thursday, October 29, 2026, in response to a surge in violence and criminal activity. Cúcuta, the country's largest city on the Venezuelan border, has recently experienced a series of violent incidents, including the assassination of a mayoral candidate and an explosive attack that wounded four police officers. These acts have been attributed to outlawed armed groups, including the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the former FARC, which contest control over the border region.

Following the order, significant police and military forces are being deployed to the city to restore order. President de la Espriella, who assumed office on August 7, 2026, has characterized the measure as strictly temporary. This marks the second time his administration has implemented such a policy; the first instance occurred in September in the coastal city of Santa Marta, where military intervention was used to counter attacks against local businesses and vehicles by criminal gangs. Authorities are currently focusing on stabilizing the region through this heightened security presence.