Deadly Clashes Erupt in Segovia Over Police Mining Operation

One person was killed and three others injured during a police operation against illegal mining at the Frontera Gold mine in Segovia, Antioquia, on the morning of July 12, 2026. The operation, involving around 150 officers from the GOES special forces, Army, and the Undmo (formerly ESMAD), began between 2:30 and 3:00 a.m. Source: El Tiempo. Miners and local leaders claim authorities entered without showing a warrant and used tear gas and live ammunition, sparking protests that included burning tires and roadblocks Source: Infobae.

Conflicting accounts of the death

Community members allege the fatality resulted from a ricochet when a police officer fired at the ground. A witness told El Colombiano that "la persona que murió era una persona que ya está en la manifestación" Source: El Colombiano. However, military sources cited by El Colombiano stated that a soldier responded after a protester fired at him, leaving one man wounded who later died Source: El Colombiano. Three others were injured.

Spread of protests

The unrest extended into residential areas, where tear gas entered homes, forcing families with children to evacuate Source: Infobae. Protesters later gathered at the local electric company and threatened to expand demonstrations unless security guarantees are provided Source: El Tiempo.

Allegations against Aris Mining

Some residents accused authorities of coordinating with the multinational Aris Mining, which operates in the region. The company declined to comment, referring to the official version of events Source: El Colombiano. As of Sunday afternoon, the Police Department had not issued a statement Source: El Tiempo.