International News: Armed groups escalate drone attacks across Colombia, Ombudsman reports

By Zoila Palma: Drone attacks by armed groups in Colombia increased by 146 percent during the first five months of 2026 compared with the same period last year, according to the country’s Ombudsman’s Office.

The attacks killed 21 people and injured 145 others, including children, as the use of explosive-laden drones becomes an increasingly prominent feature of Colombia’s armed conflict, Yahoo reports.

Ombudsman Iris Marín warned that the impact extends beyond those directly injured or killed, saying the constant sound of drones has created fear among communities in conflict-affected areas.

Homes, schools, petrol stations and other infrastructure have been targeted, while attacks and the threat of further strikes have contributed to displacement and restricted residents’ ability to travel, work in fields and access healthcare.

Armed groups commonly use improvised drones equipped with explosives for attacks and surveillance, including against rival groups and government forces and to monitor illegal coca-growing areas. The Ombudsman’s Office said the attacks have also restricted humanitarian missions and complicated efforts by displaced communities to return and remain in their territories. Human Rights Watch has separately reported that children are being trained in drone warfare and recruited by armed groups through social media.

The Colombian government is also using unmanned aircraft in its military operations, while authorities announced a $1.68 billion project in January to develop an anti-drone defense system.

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