Venezuelan Military Operation Against ELN Rebels Leaves 19 Dead

A recent military operation conducted by the Venezuelan army in the western state of Apure has resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals. The strike targeted a camp belonging to the National Liberation Army (ELN), a Colombian guerrilla organization, according to reports from the non-governmental organization FundaRedes and a military source.

Details of the Operation

The attack took place early Friday morning in a rural, forested region of southwestern Apure. According to an anonymous military source, the operation utilized drones and attack helicopters to strike the camp, catching the guerrillas by surprise. While FundaRedes initially reported nine fatalities, Juan Francisco Garcia, a coordinator for the group, confirmed on Sunday that an additional 10 bodies were subsequently transported to the state capital, San Fernando.

Footage released by FundaRedes appears to show the aftermath of the strike, depicting damaged vegetation and the ruins of a campsite. Local residents in the nearby town of Puerto Paez reported that several of the recovered bodies were severely mangled.

Claims of International Involvement

A military source familiar with the operation alleged that the strike was supported by United States intelligence agencies. The source stated, “We had help from the CIA and the FBI. This was an order from the United States.” As of the time of reporting, neither the US State Department nor the Venezuelan government has provided a response to requests for comment regarding these claims.

Regional Context and Border Security

The border between Venezuela and Colombia spans approximately 2,200 kilometers and has long been a site of activity for various armed groups involved in drug trafficking, illegal mining, and smuggling. The ELN remains one of the most prominent rebel organizations in Latin America, particularly following the 2016 peace accord between the Colombian government and the FARC.

Military affairs expert Rocio San Miguel described the incident as a potential “change in doctrine” for the Venezuelan military. This operation follows significant political shifts in the region, including the leadership transition in Venezuela under Delcy Rodriguez and the election of Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella, who has initiated a intensified crackdown on rebel groups and narcotics trafficking.

Future Implications

The military source indicated that the operation in Apure is likely to continue, noting that forces intend to keep searching the area for additional camps. The strike aligns with broader, US-led regional efforts involving over a dozen Latin American and Caribbean nations aimed at curbing organized crime and drug trafficking across the region.

Note: Information regarding the specific identities of all deceased individuals and the full extent of international coordination remains unverified by independent sources.

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p class=”vbna-source-note”>Source: Channels Television

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