Colombia Highway Bomb Attack Kills 19

A violent explosion struck the Pan-American Highway in southwestern Colombia, killing 19 individuals and injuring at least 38, including five minors. The blast, which occurred in Cajibio, Cauca province, targeted a minibus, with an explosive cylinder falling onto the vehicle and detonating. The region has seen escalating violence in recent days, prompting concerns about safety and security.

Blamed on Former FARC Drug Lord

Authorities have attributed the attack to a drug lord linked to the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). President Gustavo Petro named Ivan Mordisco as the culprit, describing him as a “terrorist, fascist, and drug trafficker.” Mordisco, a dissident from the FARC, rejected the 2016 peace agreement with the state, continuing to operate in the area. His actions are seen as part of a broader effort to destabilize public infrastructure.

“President Gustavo Petro’s government cannot continue minimizing the violence or dismantling the state,” said Paloma Valencia, a right-wing candidate from Cauca province. “We demand immediate action, full backing for our Armed Forces and police, and concrete results.”

Escalating Threats and Political Tensions

The attack follows a series of 26 bombings in the Valle del Cauca and Cauca departments over two days, targeting civilian areas. Commander Hugo López of Colombia’s Armed Forces confirmed the incidents, urging a stronger state response. High-ranking officials, including Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez, have been deployed to the region to evaluate the crisis. Sanchez was in Cali on Friday when two attacks were reported, with the third explosion happening on Saturday.

With the presidential election approaching on May 31, security has become a pivotal issue in the campaign. Political figures are under pressure to address the growing threat of terrorist activities, which have intensified ahead of the vote. Governor Octavio Guzman called the event a “tragedy,” emphasizing the need for urgent measures to prevent further escalation.

Visuals shared by Guzman on X revealed severe damage to multiple vehicles, with some overturned by the blast. Another image showed a large crater in the highway, underscoring the scale of the destruction. These images highlight the immediate impact of the attack and the lingering fears among locals. As the nation prepares for critical elections, the violence underscores ongoing tensions between armed groups and the state.