US Embassy warns Americans against travel to Colombia's Norte de Santander

The U.S. Embassy in Colombia issued a directive on Sept. 29 advising Americans not to travel to Norte de Santander Department, citing an elevated risk of attacks by armed groups utilizing explosive-rigged drones. The warning specifically covers the northeastern border region with Venezuela and extends to any area within five miles of the Colombia-Venezuela boundary. State Department guidance from recent months additionally urges U.S. citizens to reconsider travel to all other regions of the country due to persistent crime, kidnapping, and civil unrest.

The embassy statement identifies the National Liberation Army, or ELN, as a primary threat actor, noting that the U.S. designates the group as a foreign terrorist organization. According to the Sept. 29 document, groups operating in the Catatumbo region have repeatedly employed commercially available drones fitted with explosives, often in conjunction with rifle fire, to target police substations and military installations. Officials warned that these groups may conduct strikes with little or no notice against police stations, government buildings, and related infrastructure throughout the department.

Travelers in the area are instructed to maintain a low profile and remain aware of their surroundings at all times. The guidance emphasizes heightened vigilance near security facilities and along major roads, explicitly stating that individuals should not confront armed persons. The embassy also recommended avoiding crowds and demonstrations while monitoring local media for security updates. Fox News Digital contacted the U.S. Embassy in Colombia for comment regarding the new advisory.

The security alert arrives amid broader instability in Colombia, which has faced ongoing issues with terrorism and violence involving illegal armed groups. In August, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, resulting in at least 289 deaths and the destruction of more than 26,000 homes. That disaster occurred while U.S. officials were already urging Americans to reconsider travel to the nation due to crime and civil unrest.