A devastating highway explosion in southwestern Colombia has left at least 20 people dead, according to officials in the Cauca region. The attack, which occurred near a tunnel along the Pan-American Highway, has shocked the nation and raised fresh concerns about security ahead of upcoming national elections.
Cauca Governor Octavio Guzmán confirmed that the victims included 15 women and five men. At least 36 others were injured, with several in critical condition. Among the wounded were minors, though authorities reported that some of them are now out of danger.
Local reports suggest the death toll may have climbed to 21 by late Monday, making it one of the deadliest incidents in recent years. Many of the victims were from a nearby village close to the town of Cajibío, where grieving families and residents gathered to hold a peaceful vigil.
Dressed in white and carrying balloons and cloths as symbols of peace, mourners expressed deep sorrow and frustration. One relative of a victim shared that such tragic deaths should never happen, especially to innocent civilians.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro blamed the attack on a “narco-terrorist” group linked to a dissident faction of the former FARC rebel movement. He specifically identified the group as being led by Néstor Vera, also known as Iván Mordisco, a former FARC commander who rejected the 2016 peace agreement.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Al Jazeera
This bombing is considered one of the most serious attacks since a deadly 2003 bombing in Bogotá that killed dozens. The resurgence of violence by dissident armed groups has become a growing concern across the country.
The incident comes just weeks before Colombia’s presidential election, scheduled for May 31, where security remains a top issue for voters. The political climate has already been tense following the recent assassination case involving a young presidential candidate, further intensifying fears about public safety.
