The National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences confirmed this February 8 that the recent bombings in the Catatumbo region, in Norte de Santander, left seven people dead, including a minor. The events occurred during military operations on February 4 against positions of the National Liberation Army (ELN) in rural areas of the municipalities of El Tarra and Tibú.
According to the official statement, five of the seven bodies have already been identified and handed over to their families, including that of a minor. The other two bodies remain under technical-scientific analysis at the Cúcuta headquarters while identification work is completed.
The victims correspond to three women and four men, all linked to the clashes recorded during the air and ground operation.
Context of the military operation
The attack was reported by the Colombian Military Forces as a joint offensive between the National Army, the Colombian Aerospace Force and the National Police, with artillery support and specialized reconnaissance. According to official data, this bombing is one of the first of its kind against the ELN in recent years, marking an escalation in the Government’s military strategy to counter the presence of this guerrilla in northeastern Colombia.
The operation included the entry of troops into the area to consolidate control, neutralize armed structures, capture at least one alleged member of the group and seize abundant war material.
This might interest you: Soccer player in Brazil had a seizure on the field: he had an epileptic seizure and on video he was
Official response and human rights
President Gustavo Petro stated that, under his administration, multiple bombings have been carried out with the aim of minimizing the impact on minors, an issue that has generated debates about the use of force and the protection of children in conflict zones.
This is the 14th bombing in my government, preventing the fall of minors as much as possible.
I invite the peasantry to voluntarily eradicate coca leaf crops. The presidential offices must prioritize crop substitution.
I invite the ELN to accept a mission of… https://t.co/Pnq3t8Wueq
— Gustavo Petro (@petrogustavo) February 4, 2026
For their part, the military authorities have indicated that these operations are carried out in compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and seek to protect communities affected by the presence of illegal armed groups. However, the confirmation of a deceased minor has revived the discussion about the protection of children and adolescents in scenarios of armed violence.
Humanitarian situation in Catatumbo
The Catatumbo region has been facing a humanitarian crisis for months due to the intensification of the conflict between the ELN and FARC dissidents, which has caused massive displacements and affected local security. Humanitarian organizations have reported that tens of thousands of people have had to leave their homes, especially in municipalities such as Cúcuta, Tibú and Ocaña.
The presence of armed groups, explosive devices and clashes has impacted both combatants and civilians, forcing many families to seek refuge in other locations and generating deep concern for the protection of vulnerable populations, including children.