Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella announced that six armed rebels were killed in clashes on Sunday, marking the beginning of a campaign to combat crime following his recent inauguration. The president, a far-right leader, took office on Friday with a pledge to dismantle criminal groups that profit from drug trafficking, amid the country's most severe violence in a decade. The operation targeted groups involved in illegal drug activities, reflecting the administration's commitment to reducing crime and improving public safety.

The victims included members of a splinter faction from the former FARC guerrilla group and two members of the Gulf Clan, the dominant drug cartel in Colombia. The attacks took place in the Antioquia department, located in the northwest of the country. This action is part of a broader effort to address the growing threat of organized crime and restore order in regions affected by violence. The government has emphasized the need for a strong response to curb the influence of these groups and protect communities from their activities.

Sources
  • Arab News PK — Colombia president says 6 armed rebels killed in clashes
  • euronews.com — Panamanian border police prepare to deploy to reinforce security along the border with Colombia in Meteti, Panama, Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026.
  • dawn.com — Colombia earthquake kills at least 22 as buildings collapse in several cities
  • news.google.com — Powerful earthquake shakes Colombia and Ecuador prompting people to evacuate homes and buildings - apnews.com