Politics Several dead in bomb attack in western Colombia
Just over a month before the presidential election in Colombia, at least 14 civilians have been killed in a bomb attack, according to the authorities. "There are no words to describe the pain we feel today," said the governor of Cauca, Octavio Guzmán, via the X platform.
26.04.2026, 09:23
26.04.2026, 09:24
SDA
According to Guzmán, the attack took place in the town of Cajibío in south-western Colombia. According to media reports, an explosive cylinder fell on a minibus and exploded. Pictures shared by the governor on X showed extensive damage to several vehicles. More than 38 people were injured, including five minors, Guzmán wrote. The governor spoke of a "tragedy", warned of a "terrorist escalation" and called for decisive action by the government.
The newspaper "El Tiempo" reported, citing eyewitnesses, that armed men had previously stopped and blocked vehicles on the road. The investigating authorities initially gave no official details of possible suspects.
President Gustavo Petro spoke of terrorism in connection with the incident. He described the perpetrators as "terrorists, fascists and drug dealers" and blamed dissidents from the former Farc guerrillas, who have not recognized the 2016 peace agreement.
Tense security situation with several attacks
The attack hits Colombia in a tense security situation just a few weeks before the presidential election on May 31. There was already a series of coordinated attacks in the west of the country on Friday. According to consistent reports, a vehicle exploded near a military base in the tourist city of Cali, while there were further detonations near a military facility in the neighboring city of Palmira. No fatalities were reported. The authorities are also blaming dissidents from the former Farc guerrillas.
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez announced an intensified offensive by the security forces in light of the latest attacks - a bounty has also been placed on the heads of those suspected of being responsible. The groups continue to be among the most important actors in the violence in the region. The security situation is one of the key issues in the election campaign.
