A Wave of Violence Strikes South-Western Colombia

In a shocking surge of violence, at least seven individuals have lost their lives in a series of bomb and gun assaults that rocked south-western Colombia. These attacks primarily targeted Cali, the nation's third-largest city, along with several nearby towns, leaving the community reeling.

Chaos Unleashed by Bombs and Gunfire

The brutal assault involved an arsenal of explosives and firearms, including car bombs, motorcycle bombs, and rifle fire, with unconfirmed reports of a potential drone strike. The Colombian Ministry of Defence confirmed that a staggering 19 separate attacks unfolded during this violent outbreak.

Links to Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)

Local media sources have suggested a possible connection between some of the violence and factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), a historically significant guerrilla organization. However, the BBC and other outlets have yet to independently verify these claims.

Targeting Civilians and Public Institutions

Among the sites impacted were police stations, municipal buildings, and various civilian targets, underscoring the escalating security crisis gripping the country. Reports indicate that the death toll stands at seven, with injuries ranging from 28 to over 50.

Desperation from Armed Groups

The Colombian Ministry of Defence described this surge of violence as "a desperate response by illegal armed groups," reacting to military and police operations aimed at dismantling their illicit infrastructures and economies.

A City Haunted by Its Past

The mayor of Cali ominously remarked that the city seems to have reverted to the chaotic days of 1989, a time marked by rampant drug trafficking and cartel violence.

Political Unrest Amid Violence

These horrific attacks follow just days after an attempted assassination of presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay in Bogotá, where he was addressing supporters. A teenager, aged 15, was taken into custody at the scene, and the Attorney General’s office has stated that he has rejected the charges against him, which include attempted murder and illegal possession of a firearm. A judge has since ordered his detention.