Latin American Governments Struggle to Combat Criminal Use of Drones

Latin American governments are grappling with an escalating threat from the use of drones by criminal organizations across the region. In recent years, these groups have adapted commercially available drone technology for surveillance, territorial control, and violent attacks, posing significant challenges to law enforcement agencies.

Mexico and the United States recently agreed to deepen their security cooperation around counter-drone technology in response to this growing threat. The collaboration aims to address how criminal organizations are transforming inexpensive commercial drones into sophisticated tools that can be used for a range of illicit activities, from drug trafficking to urban turf wars.

In Colombia, where armed conflict remains a pressing issue, the number of municipalities affected by drone attacks has surged dramatically. Between 2024 and 2025, the number of regions impacted increased from 12 to 41, while illegal drone attacks rose from 38 to 149 during the same period. This alarming trend underscores the rapid evolution of criminal tactics in the region.

To combat this threat, Colombia's government has unveiled a $1.68 billion anti-drone program called Escudo Nacional Antidrones. The initiative aims to detect and intercept hostile unmanned aircraft through comprehensive training for security personnel and the establishment of specialized military units within the Colombian army. This multi-phase plan is currently in its initial stages but has already seen some successes, including drone seizures and arrests of specialized operators recruited by criminal groups.

The rapid spread of drone technology among criminal organizations highlights a significant challenge: while drones can be purchased relatively cheaply—costing as little as $600 to $1,200—the technical knowledge required for their modification is being rapidly disseminated within and between criminal networks. This has led to the development of increasingly sophisticated devices capable of carrying explosives or surveillance equipment.

Brazil faces similar challenges, with urban turf wars seeing a rise in drone usage by criminal groups. In Mexico, fragmented criminal landscapes have also seen an uptick in drone activity, further complicating efforts by law enforcement to maintain control over territories and disrupt illegal operations.

The evolving nature of this threat requires a coordinated international response, as evidenced by the collaboration between Mexico and the United States. However, the rapid adaptation of technology by criminals means that governments must continuously innovate and adapt their strategies to stay ahead in this technological arms race.

As drone technology continues to evolve and become more accessible, Latin American countries will need to invest heavily in both defensive measures and international cooperation to mitigate the risks posed by these unmanned aircraft.