Country Report on Terrorism 2024 - Chapter 4 - National Liberation Army (ELN)

National Liberation Army

Aka:  ELN; Ejército de Liberación Nacional.

Description:  The ELN was designated as an FTO on October 8, 1997.ELN was a Colombian Marxist-Leninist group formed in 1964.  It remained focused on attacking the security services and the economic infrastructure – in particular, oil and gas pipelines and electricity pylons – and on extorting foreign and local companies.  ELN committed crimes and acts of terrorism throughout Colombia, including violence against civilian populations both there and in Venezuela.

Activities:  In September 2024, following an attack that killed two soldiers and injured more than two dozen, the Government of Colombia again called off peace talks with ELN.  In November, ELN killed five soldiers in an attack with explosives in Anorí, according to the Colombian Army.

Strength:  ELN was estimated to have 5,000 to 6,000 members.

Location/Area of Operation:  Colombia and Venezuela.

Funding and External Aid:  ELN drew its funding from its involvement in drug trafficking activities, extortion of oil and gas companies and landowners, and illegal mining in Colombia and Venezuela.  ELN also derived additional funds from kidnapping-for-ransom payments.

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