At least 19 people have been killed after Venezuelan military forces launched an aerial attack on a camp belonging to Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) rebel group in western Venezuela.
The attack targeted the rebel encampment in Apure state, near the Colombian border, on Friday, according to a human rights organisation and sources familiar with the military operation.
Juan Francisco Garcia, coordinator of the human rights organisation FundaRedes, told AFP that the bombing caused significant casualties. He reported that nine bodies initially arrived in San Fernando, the state capital, while authorities subsequently transferred another 10 bodies.
The incident marks a significant military operation against Colombian rebels operating inside Venezuelan territory.
Meanwhile, the ELN has emerged as Latin America’s most powerful rebel organisation since the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) signed a peace agreement with the Colombian government in 2016.
Colombian authorities have repeatedly accused Venezuela of providing shelter and logistical support to Colombian rebel groups.
The latest operation comes as Venezuela faces continued diplomatic and economic pressure from Washington following the US-backed removal of former president Nicolas Maduro in January.
The attack could further intensify regional security concerns and cross-border tensions.
