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Colombia bus explosion kills 13; army calls it 'terrorist act'
An explosive device on a bus in Cajibío, Cauca killed 13 people and injured at least 38, including five children. The army labeled the attack a terrorist act and blamed dissident groups tied to drug trafficking. The incident came amid a surge of violence in southwestern Colombia as authorities mobilized high-level officials.
Why It Matters
The attack highlights the ongoing violence linked to illegal armed groups in southwestern Colombia and the strain on security and intelligence operations as authorities seek to curb drugtrafficking-led violence and enforce the peace process.
Timeline
8 Events
Reward offered for information on dissidents
April 25, 2026
The government offered a reward of more than $1 million for information leading to the capture of 'Marlon', identified as the leader of the region's dissident group.
Drone attack on El Tambo radar facility
April 25, 2026
Authorities took down three explosives-laden drones during an attack on a Civil Aviation radar facility in El Tambo; no injuries were reported.
Palmira defense delegation meeting interrupted by explosion
April 25, 2026
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez led a delegation of regional governors and local authorities meeting in Palmira when the deadly explosion occurred.
President Petro condemns the attack
April 25, 2026
President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack, labeling those responsible as terrorists, fascists, and drug traffickers.
Armed forces blame dissidents for Cajibío attack
April 25, 2026
Gen. Hugo López, commander of Colombia's Armed Forces, described the Cajibío attack as a 'terrorist act' and blamed the network of dissident Iván Mordisco and the Jaime Martínez faction.
Bus bombing in Cajibío kills 13, injures 38
April 25, 2026
An explosive device detonated on a bus traveling along the Panamerican Highway in Cajibío, Cauca, killing 13 people and injuring at least 38, including five children.
Authorities offer reward for information on attacks in Cali and Palmira
April 24, 2026
Local authorities offered more than $14,000 for information leading to the identification and location of those behind the attacks in Cali and Palmira.
Two vehicles rigged with explosives detonate near military units in Cali and Palmira
April 24, 2026
On Friday, two vehicles rigged with explosives were detonated near military units in Cali and Palmira, causing material damage.