Ten police officers killed in helicopter attack during anti-narcotics mission

In Colombia, a tragic attack on a National Police helicopter took place during an anti-narcotics operation, resulting in significant casualties among law enforcement officers. The incident is reported to have occurred in Amalfi, Antioquia, where the helicopter was on a mission related to coca leaf crop eradication. At least ten police officers died due to the attack, and several others sustained injuries. Colombian President Gustavo Petro stated that eight officers were initially confirmed dead, but later updates revealed the total fatalities had risen to ten. The nature of the attack is still under investigation, as there are conflicting reports regarding the assailants responsible. President Petro attributed the attack to the 36th Front of the Estado Mayor Central (EMC), a dissident group of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Meanwhile, local media speculated that the powerful criminal organization, Gulf Clan, might also be involved, given the attack followed a judicial crackdown on cocaine trafficking in the Urabá region. The governor of Antioquia, Andrés Julián Rendón, labeled the incident a terrorist act and emphasized the urgent need for coordination between national government entities to effectively combat such threats. The helicopter was reportedly targeted while supporting the eradication efforts, leading to a crash into a hillside. Eyewitness reports indicated that the helicopter might have been struck by gunfire or a drone, but official confirmation of the specific attack method has yet to be released. This incident highlights the ongoing struggles Colombia faces with drug trafficking, guerrilla warfare, and related violence. The backdrop of the attack includes the complex dynamics of various armed groups operating within the country, which complicate law enforcement initiatives aimed at reducing drug-related crime. As military and police units continue to assess the situation and support those injured, it underscores the persistent dangers that police face while carrying out their missions to restore safety and order in the region.