Members of the illegal armed group Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN) have announced an "armed strike" in Chocó Department, Colombia. The event is set to begin at midnight on February 18 and conclude at midnight on February 21. During this period, the ELN has declared that no public activities will occur, public transportation will be suspended, and civilians are expected to remain indoors. The group has warned that individuals who venture outside may face detention, imprisonment, or be shot.
U.S. citizens currently in Chocó are advised to consider leaving the area due to the unstable security situation. Those unable to leave should take several precautions: secure drinkable water, seek shelter and fortify it as much as possible, remain indoors, avoid confronting guerrillas or armed individuals, maintain vigilance and awareness of surroundings, keep a low profile, avoid crowds, and monitor local media for updates.
For assistance during this period, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in Bogota at +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000 or via email at acsbogota@state.gov. Additional support is available from the U.S. Consular Agency in Barranquilla through conagencybarranquilla@state.gov. For more information on Colombia's country conditions or to receive security updates by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), visit https://co.usembassy.gov/.
U.S. citizens can also reach out to the U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs at 1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444 for further guidance.
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