Southwest Colombia explosion kills at least 14 people

Colombia: At Least 14 Killed in Highway Bombing

A deadly explosion occurred on Saturday on the Pan-American Highway in southwestern Colombia’s Cauca region, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and over 38 injuries, including five minors. The incident took place in the El Tunel sector of Cajibio.

Regional authorities have reported that the explosive device was detonated on the highway. Governor Octavio Guzmán condemned the attack, stating that it was an “indiscriminate attack” against the civilian population.

General Hugo López, commander of Colombia’s Armed Forces, described the incident as a “terrorist act.” He attributed the bombing to the network of Ivan Mordisco and Jaime Martínez faction, both dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) armed group.

The Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack, calling the perpetrators “terrorists, fascists, and drug traffickers.”

This incident is part of a recent spate of explosions targeting public infrastructure in southwestern Colombia. At least 26 incidents have occurred over the past two days, affecting civilians only. Other attacks include a shooting at a police station in Jamundi and an attack on a Civil Aviation radar facility in El Tambo.

A delegation led by Minister of Defence Pedro Sanchez met in Palmira to discuss the escalation of violence in the region. Regional governors and local authorities are also present.

Governor Francisca Toro has called upon the national government to provide “immediate support” for public security forces, enhanced intelligence operations, and “decisive actions” against crime.

The Cauca and Valle del Cauca regions serve as a critical hub for illicit activities of illegal armed groups. The government has offered a reward of over $1 million for information leading to the capture of Marlon, identified as the leader of the region’s dissident group.

Source: Al Jazeera