US Warns of Crime and Drone Attacks Near Colombia Border

U.S. officials are warning Americans to avoid a volatile region of northeastern Colombia after reporting an increased threat from armed groups, including attacks involving drones fitted with explosives. The alert, posted by the U.S. Embassy in Colombia on Sept. 29, focuses on the Norte de Santander Department, which sits along Colombia’s border with Venezuela.

The embassy said U.S. citizens should not travel to Norte de Santander or within 5 miles of the Colombia-Venezuela border because of crime, kidnapping and ongoing conflict among armed groups. The warning adds to broader State Department guidance issued in recent months urging Americans to reconsider travel to other parts of Colombia as well.

According to the embassy, the region faces an elevated risk of attacks by illegal armed organizations. Among the groups cited is the National Liberation Army, or ELN, which the United States classifies as a foreign terrorist organization. Officials said the danger is especially serious in the Catatumbo region, where armed factions have repeatedly used commercially available drones modified to carry explosives.

The embassy statement said those drone attacks have often been paired with rifle fire and have targeted police substations and military installations. U.S. officials also warned that attacks in Norte de Santander could happen with little or no advance notice and may be directed at police stations, government buildings, military sites and related infrastructure.

Safety guidance for U.S. citizens

Americans in or near the area were told to maintain a low profile and stay alert at all times. The embassy advised travelers to exercise heightened vigilance, particularly near official buildings, security facilities and major roads. It also warned people not to confront armed individuals.

Officials further recommended avoiding crowds and demonstrations and following local media for security developments. The warning reflects concern that violence can shift quickly in contested areas where state forces and illegal armed groups are active.

Norte de Santander has long been a sensitive zone because of its border location and the presence of trafficking routes, armed factions and cross-border tensions. While Colombia is widely known for its dramatic landscapes, major cities and cultural appeal, parts of the country continue to face entrenched security challenges tied to crime, terrorism and political violence.

Broader concerns about travel in Colombia

The latest embassy alert comes amid continuing U.S. concern about safety conditions in Colombia. State Department guidance has already pointed to risks including crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping. The new warning underscores how those threats can become more acute in border departments where armed groups maintain influence and carry out attacks against security forces.

Colombia has also dealt with other major crises in recent memory. In August, a deadly 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia, killing at least 289 people and destroying more than 26,000 homes. That disaster unfolded against the backdrop of existing travel warnings, highlighting the range of risks that can affect visitors and residents alike.

Fox News Digital said it reached out to the U.S. Embassy in Colombia for comment. For now, the core message from U.S. officials is clear: Americans should stay away from Norte de Santander and the immediate border zone and closely monitor official guidance before traveling elsewhere in Colombia.