Background on the Bicentenario Oil Pipeline and its Significance
The Bicentenario oil pipeline, one of Colombia’s most crucial energy arteries, was targeted in another explosive attack that forced the suspension of crude oil pumping. This information was disclosed by Cenit, Ecopetrol’s subsidiary responsible for hydrocarbon transportation (ECO.CN).
Attack Details and Impact
The attack, which occurred in the rural area of Fortul municipality in Arauca department (northeast Colombia), did not result in any fatalities or injuries. Despite this, the incident prompted Cenit to issue a statement warning about oil contamination in a nearby river due to the attack.
The region is under the influence of the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), Colombia’s largest active rebel group with approximately 6,000 combatants. Both the United States and the European Union classify ELN as a terrorist organization, which has been attacking oil pipelines amidst a decades-long conflict that has claimed over 450,000 lives.
Pipeline Description and Operations
The Bicentenario pipeline spans 230 kilometers and has the capacity to transport an average of 150,000 barrels of crude oil daily. It originates from the Araguaney station in Casanare department and extends to Banadía in Arauca, connecting with the Caño Limón-Coveñas oil pipeline.
Military Response and Regional Context
Following the attack, the Colombian National Army secured the area to ensure safe access for technical personnel addressing the situation. The presence of ELN guerrillas in the region adds complexity to the security challenges faced by the pipeline.
Recent Attack Trends
In 2025 alone, the Bicentenario pipeline has been targeted by five attacks, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure in Colombia.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is attacking the Bicentenario oil pipeline? The Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), a significant rebel group in Colombia, is responsible for the recent attacks.
- What is the capacity and length of the Bicentenario pipeline? The pipeline spans 230 kilometers and has a daily crude oil transportation capacity of approximately 150,000 barrels.
- What is the impact of these attacks on Colombia’s energy sector? These attacks disrupt crude oil pumping, threaten environmental contamination, and highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by critical energy infrastructure in Colombia.
- What is the significance of ELN being classified as a terrorist organization? The classification by the United States and European Union implies that ELN’s actions, including pipeline attacks, are viewed as part of a broader terrorist campaign.
