The ELN banned the transport of people and goods for the duration of the shutdown. Shops must also remain closed, according to the rebel group.
Guerrillas have historically enforced the shutdown in regions under their control.
ELN
Defense Minister Diego Molano rejected the announced shutdown and urged people to “trust the security forces.”
Defense Minister Diego Molano
During the 2020 shutdown, the security forces withdrew from streets in regions where the ELN is strong.
This shutdown was particularly disruptive in regions along the border with Venezuela where the guerrilla group has been active for decades.
The security situation in this border region and along the Pacific coast has deteriorated significantly during the pandemic.