At least 14 people have been killed and dozens more injured following a powerful roadside bomb explosion on a busy highway in Colombia’s Cauca region. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, has triggered nationwide concern over worsening security conditions ahead of the country’s upcoming presidential election. Local authorities reported that at least 38 people were wounded in the blast, including several children.
Many of the injured are said to be in critical condition, with emergency teams continuing treatment efforts at nearby hospitals. Government officials have initially blamed a FARC-linked armed group for the attack. The region has long been a hotspot for violence tied to drug production and trafficking, where multiple armed factions continue to operate, further complicating security efforts. Following the incident, President Gustavo Petro strongly condemned the attack, describing the perpetrators as criminals who will face decisive action. He directed security forces to intensify operations and respond swiftly to the evolving threat. Authorities confirmed that several vehicles were severely damaged in the explosion, which also disrupted traffic along the Pan-American Highway, a key transport route in the region. Rescue operations are ongoing as teams continue searching for those reported missing. Senior military officials have described the incident as a deliberate attack against civilians. Analysts warn that such violence, occurring so close to national elections, could further destabilize Colombia’s already fragile security and political environment.