ELN Threat in Zulia: Diosdado Cabello’s Support Fuels Fear
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ELN‘s Evolution in Venezuela: From Guerrilla Group to Drug Cartel
Table of Contents
The National Liberation Army (ELN), a Colombian guerrilla group, has significantly transformed its operations within Venezuela, evolving from a customary subversive institution into a powerful transnational drug cartel deeply embedded in the daily lives of Venezuelan communities. This shift has occurred due to a complex interplay of factors, including the political and economic crisis in Venezuela, the group’s pursuit of financial resources, and a permissive environment for illicit activities.
Origins and Traditional Activities of the ELN
The ELN is a left-wing guerrilla group founded in Colombia in 1964. Initially focused on agrarian reform and challenging the Colombian state, the ELN traditionally engaged in activities such as kidnapping, extortion, and attacks on infrastructure. The group maintained a presence along the Colombia-Venezuela border for decades, utilizing the area for logistical support and recruitment.
For example, in 2007, Colombian authorities reported increased ELN activity in the border region, specifically focusing on extortion of businesses and farmers (El Tiempo, 2007).
The Shift Towards Drug trafficking
The deepening economic and political crisis in Venezuela, beginning around 2014, created an environment ripe for increased criminal activity. The ELN recognized the lucrative opportunities presented by drug trafficking,particularly cocaine,and began to prioritize this activity as a primary source of funding. Venezuela’s porous borders, weak state institutions, and widespread corruption facilitated the ELN’s expansion into the drug trade.
According to a 2021 report by the International Crisis Group, the ELN has become a key player in the cocaine trade flowing through Venezuela, controlling notable portions of production and transportation routes (International Crisis Group, 2021).
ELN’s Impact on Venezuelan Communities
The ELN’s involvement in drug trafficking has had a devastating impact on Venezuelan communities.The group exerts control over local populations through intimidation, violence, and the provision of basic services in areas where the state is absent. This control extends to everyday life, with residents often forced to cooperate with the ELN or face severe consequences.
In 2023, Human Rights Watch documented cases of ELN extortion and threats against Venezuelan citizens in the state of apure, highlighting the group’s increasing influence over local economies and social structures (Human Rights Watch, 2023). The report details how the ELN demands ”vaccines” (protection money) from businesses and individuals, and punishes those who refuse to pay.
Venezuelan Government Response and International concerns
The Venezuelan government has historically been accused of tolerating the ELN’s presence within its borders, with some allegations suggesting direct collaboration. Though, in recent years, there have been limited attempts to crack down on the group, frequently enough framed as part of broader efforts to combat organized crime. International pressure, particularly from colombia and the United States, has increased on Venezuela to take stronger action against the ELN.
in January 2024, the U.S. State Department designated several ELN leaders as Specially Designated Nationals,freezing thier assets and prohibiting U.S. citizens from engaging in transactions with them (U.S. Department of State, 2024). This action underscores the international community’s concern over the ELN’s activities and its growing ties to transnational criminal networks.
Current Status (as of January 16,2026)
as of January 16,2026,the ELN continues to operate extensively within Venezuela,maintaining a strong presence in states such as Apure,Zulia,and Bolívar. While Venezuelan security