A Colombian police aircraft was fired upon with rifle bursts shortly after taking off from Ocaña Airport in Norte de Santander [1, 2].
The incident highlights the persistent security risks facing law enforcement aviation in the region. While the aircraft remained airborne, the attack underscores the volatility of the Norte de Santander department, where police and military assets frequently face ground-based ambushes.
General William Rincón of the Colombian National Police said the aircraft was targeted during its ascent [1, 2]. Despite the gunfire, the pilot performed a maneuver that kept the plane in flight, allowing for a safe return and landing at the airport [1, 2].
Three uniformed police officers were injured during the attack [1]. Other reports indicated that more than two officers sustained injuries during the incident [2]. The injured personnel were treated following the emergency landing.
Authorities have not yet specified the motive behind the attack or identified the group responsible for the rifle fire [1, 2]. The Colombian National Police continue to monitor the area around Ocaña Airport to prevent further incursions, a critical step in maintaining aerial logistics for the region.
Investigation into the breach of airport security is ongoing. The pilot's ability to maintain control of the aircraft under fire prevented a potential crash that could have resulted in higher casualties among the crew and personnel on the ground [1, 2].
“A police aircraft was fired upon with rifle bursts after take‑off.”
The targeting of a police aircraft during the critical takeoff phase indicates a sophisticated level of ambush coordination by armed groups in Norte de Santander. Because Ocaña Airport is a strategic hub for security operations, this attack suggests that ground-based militants are capable of breaching airport perimeters or maintaining surveillance of flight schedules to time their strikes.
