Colombia battles wildfires in Tolima as government investigates criminal origin

Colombia is battling a severe wave of wildfires, with the department of Tolima as the epicenter. As of late August 2026, more than 30,000 hectares have been affected in Tolima alone, according to Governor Adriana Magali Matiz Source: eltiempoco. The national emergency has prompted President Abelardo de la Espriella to travel to the region to coordinate the response Source: infobae. The government suspects that many fires were deliberately set, and authorities have already made arrests Source: portafolioco.

The crisis in Tolima

The fires have devastated agriculture and livestock. Governor Matiz reported losses exceeding $50,000 million pesos in the agricultural sector, with over 8,000 hectares of crops affected and about 22,000 cattle left without feed Source: clarin. The Ministry of Agriculture has activated the 'Compromiso Tolima' plan to provide aid, including feed for livestock and freezing of agricultural credit Source: larepublicaco. More than 782 members of the security forces are deployed, along with specialized firefighters from Antioquia Source: elcolombiano.

Criminal investigation

Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara confirmed the capture of two people allegedly involved in starting fires Source: eltiempoco. Governor Matiz cited community videos showing "two men on a motorcycle" setting fires, and noted a suspicious coincidence with armed attacks in the region Source: clarin. The government is also considering a new anti-terrorism statute to combat such actions Source: clarin.

Legal consequences

Provoking a forest fire can lead to severe penalties. Under Colombian law, ecocide carries prison sentences of 60 to 135 months and fines up to $37,500 million pesos Source: larepublicaco. Additionally, the Ministry of Environment has suspended controlled burns nationwide to reduce risk Source: El Tiempo.