# Colombia customs and border enforcement tightening

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/colombia-customs-and-border-enforcement-tightening
> Updated: 2026-09-14T05:55:04.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Colombian President Abelardo De la Espriella and the National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) announced new administrative measures to tighten customs and border policies. The initiative aims to combat corruption, drug trafficking, smuggling, and illegal mining.

Under these restrictions, the importation of chemical precursors, drone components, and heavy machinery will be limited to specific entry points in Bogotá and Cartagena to disrupt criminal groups. To enhance enforcement, the government is establishing a new unit within the Fiscal and Customs Police (Polfa) led by an elite group of female officers. Additionally, high-ranking members of the Public Force will take control of DIAN regional offices in ports and border areas. The government also intends to relaunch cooperation with United States agencies, such as HSI and CBP, to target smuggling and evasion.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-14: Customs officials intercept smuggling attempts at major airports

Customs officials in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka intercepted smuggling attempts at major airports, seizing cigarettes, electronics, and vapes, while uncovering a body-packing attempt from Uganda.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/customs-officials-intercept-smuggling-attempts-at-major-airports

### 2026-09-12: Colombia tightens customs controls to combat smuggling and crime

Colombia is tightening customs controls on heavy machinery, drones, and chemical precursors to combat smuggling and organized crime, following record monthly contraband seizures.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombia-tightens-customs-controls-to-combat-smuggling-and-crime

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Cite as: Colombia customs and border enforcement tightening. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/colombia-customs-and-border-enforcement-tightening