A bus bombing in Cajibio, Colombia, on Saturday resulted in seven fatalities and over seventeen injuries, marking a significant increase in violence attributed to FARC dissident groups competing for control of key drug trafficking routes.

Deadly Attack in Cauca Department

The explosion occurred along the Panamerican Highway in Cajibio, Cauca department, while the bus was traveling. Governor Octavio Guzmán reported the details on social media, highlighting the severity of the incident and its impact on the region.

Government Condemnation and Response

General Hugo López, commander of Colombia’s Armed Forces, condemned the attack as a “terrorist act” and directly blamed the networks of “Iván Mordisco” and the Jaime Martínez faction. These groups are remnants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) who did not participate in the 2016 peace agreement.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro labeled the perpetrators as “terrorists, fascists, and drug traffickers” in a social media statement, emphasizing the tragic loss of civilian lives, particularly within the Indigenous population.

Escalating Violence in Southwest Colombia

This attack is part of a disturbing trend of escalating violence in southwest Colombia, with at least twenty-six criminal incidents reported in the past two days. Previous attempts to disrupt public infrastructure, including a shooting targeting a police station in Jamundi and a thwarted drone attack on a Civil Aviation radar facility in El Tambo, largely avoided casualties but demonstrated a clear intent to destabilize the region.

Two explosive devices were also detonated near military installations in Cali and Palmira on Friday, causing significant material damage.

Security Measures and Rewards

Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez mobilized to the region with regional governors and local authorities. He vowed a firm response, stating the government would not allow criminals to instill fear.

The Cauca and Valle del Cauca regions are critical hubs for illicit activities conducted by various illegal armed groups vying for control of strategic access routes to the port of Buenaventura, a key transit point for drug trafficking.

A reward exceeding one million dollars has been offered for information leading to the capture of “Marlon,” the alleged leader of the Jaime Martínez faction. Local authorities have also offered over $14,000 for information related to the attacks in Cali and Palmira.

Governor Francisca Toro of Valle del Cauca has appealed to the national government for “immediate support,” requesting increased public security forces, enhanced intelligence gathering, and “decisive actions.”