Highway Bombing in Colombia Kills Dozens, Authorities Blame Rebel Groups

(MENAFN) A deadly explosion on a highway in southern Colombia has killed at least 14 people and left dozens more injured, including minors, according to reports. Authorities have linked the attack to insurgent groups operating in the region.

The blast struck in the Cauca area, where eyewitness footage showed destroyed vehicles and debris scattered across the road after the explosion. Witnesses described a powerful detonation that threw people backward and caused widespread damage along the highway.

Colombia’s president blamed dissident factions associated with former guerrilla groups, accusing them of carrying out the attack. He referred to the perpetrators in strong terms and called for a firm military response, saying the country’s armed forces should act decisively against those responsible.

Local officials described the bombing as indiscriminate and warned that the region has been facing repeated waves of violence. The governor of Cauca said the area could not continue dealing with such attacks alone, highlighting growing concern over security conditions.

Additional incidents were also reported in the same region in recent days, including attempted attacks on military targets and a failed explosive device reportedly linked to criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, according to defense authorities.

The violence comes amid a politically sensitive period, with national elections approaching. The government has been pursuing negotiations and ceasefire efforts with various armed groups, although some factions remain active outside peace agreements, contributing to ongoing instability in several regions.

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