Location: Saravena, Arauca, Colombia
Event: On January 19, at approximately 10:15 PM, an explosion occurred in Saravena, Arauca, Colombia.
Initial media reports indicate a car bomb in Saravena, Arauca targeted human rights offices, NGOs, and Colombian government facilities, with multiple casualties and significant damage to buildings in the vicinity.
The U.S. Department of State continues to advise citizens not to travel to Arauca due to crime and terrorism. Violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, is widespread. Terrorist groups are active in Arauca. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens as U.S. government-personnel travel to Arauca is severely restricted due to security concerns. The full Travel Advisory for Colombia can be found here.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the area where the incident took place.
- Notify friends and family of your safety.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Exercise vigilance.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia
Tel. +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000
acsbogota@state.gov
https://co.usembassy.gov/ - U.S. Consular Agency, Barranquilla
conagencybarranquilla@state.gov - U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444 - Colombia Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
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