Monday, April 27, 2026 -At least 14 people have been killed and dozens injured following a bomb explosion on a major highway in southwestern Colombia, in what authorities describe as part of a broader surge in violent attacks.
The blast occurred on the Pan-American Highway in the El
Túnel area of Cajibío, where an explosive device detonated in what officials
called an indiscriminate attack targeting civilians. Several vehicles were
destroyed, leaving behind a large crater and widespread debris, while victims
included both adults and children.
Cauca Governor Octavio Guzmán confirmed the casualties and
said emergency responders were deployed immediately. Colombia’s Defence
Minister Pedro Sánchez also visited the scene to coordinate rescue operations,
as authorities launched a national-level security response.
Officials say the bombing is part of a wider “wave” of
coordinated attacks across multiple مناطق in the region, including El Tambo,
Caloto, Popayán, and Miranda. Colombia’s military high command described the
incidents as a serious escalation in violence.
The attacks have been blamed on dissident factions of the
former rebel group Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), particularly
those linked to militant leader Néstor Gregorio Vera Fernández.
Although FARC officially disbanded after a 2016 peace
agreement, splinter groups that rejected the deal have continued insurgent
activities, especially in rural مناطق. These factions are believed to be
responsible for ongoing violence tied to drug trafficking and territorial
control.
President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack, describing
those responsible as terrorists and calling for intensified global efforts to
track and dismantle the groups behind the violence.
Authorities
say investigations are ongoing as security forces attempt to restore order and
prevent further attacks.
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