Night of terror and fear in three northern Nariño municipalities: multiple attacks against Police stations registered

Residents of San José de Albán, Tablón de Gómez, and La Unión in Colombia's northern Nariño department endured a night of intense fear on Friday, August 7, as illegal armed groups targeted police stations with explosives and gunfire. Drones reportedly carrying explosives were also deployed.

While authorities have not reported any casualties, the attacks plunged the communities into chaos. Residents described a long, terrifying night filled with confusion and fear, unable to sleep until dawn on Saturday, August 8. The incidents prompted civil authorities to advise residents to remain in their homes until the situation normalized.

In San José de Albán, the night's events began around 8 p.m. with reports of gunfire directed at the local police station. The few people on the streets rushed indoors, and businesses closed their doors. A community security statement confirmed "serious disturbances of public order and bursts of gunfire against the San José de Albán Police Station" and urged residents to stay indoors.

Almost simultaneously, residents in El Tablón de Gómez, approximately 14 kilometers away, also reported an attack on their police station. Minutes of intense rifle fire were heard, apparently aimed at the police installation. Panic ensued, with people shouting for help amidst the gunfire originating from nearby mountains. Details regarding any impact on civilians or security forces remain unclear.

A similar situation unfolded in La Unión, located 92 kilometers from Pasto. Around 11 p.m., social media videos showed rifle fire and a drone flying near the police station. The attacks have created a climate of extreme tension in these northern Nariño municipalities, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.

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Serious disturbances of public order and bursts of gunfire against the San José de Albán Police Station. Please do not leave your home!