Authorities are investigating possible petroleum contamination across three wetlands in Barrancabermeja, Colombia, following reports of oil stains and wildlife deaths.

The situation threatens critical aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of local fishing communities who depend on the health of these water bodies.

Reports of contamination surfaced between May 17 and May 28, 2026 [1]. The affected areas include the ciénaga Los Mangos, ciénaga El Llanito, and ciénaga San Silvestre [1]. In the ciénaga San Silvestre, the region's most important wetland, officials reported the death of two manatees [2].

Ecopetrol, the state oil company, and its transport arm, Cenit, have responded to the alarms raised by fishermen and community members. The company activated a contingency plan to address the hydrocarbon stains appearing in the water [1].

There are conflicting accounts regarding the cause of the spill. Ecopetrol said the contamination resulted from heavy rains on May 17, 2026, which damaged a natural barrier at the Impacto Ambiental No Resuelto (IANR) La Macarena [3]. However, representatives from Cenit said the emergency was caused by failures in construction works and the use of inappropriate machinery in the area [1].

Regional environmental authorities, including the Secretaría de Medio Ambiente, are monitoring the sites. Large oil stains were specifically observed in the ciénaga El Llanito, which authorities described as a significant threat to the local fauna [4].

Local fishermen continue to alert officials as the smell of petroleum persists in the wetlands. The coordination between state oil entities and environmental agencies remains focused on containing the spread and assessing the total ecological impact [1].

“The situation threatens critical aquatic ecosystems and the livelihoods of local fishing communities.”

The contradiction between Ecopetrol and Cenit regarding the spill's cause—weather-related barrier failure versus operational negligence—suggests a potential legal and regulatory conflict. If the spill is linked to inappropriate machinery or construction failures, the state oil company may face stricter penalties and be forced to overhaul its environmental safeguards in the Santander region.