At least 21 people have been killed in a powerful roadside explosion on a major highway in southwestern Colombia, in what authorities describe as one of the deadliest attacks in recent years as the country approaches national elections.
The blast occurred along the Pan-American Highway in the conflict-affected Cauca region, where armed groups remain active despite past peace agreements. Officials said the explosion struck vehicles travelling along the busy route, causing widespread destruction and leaving dozens more injured.
Initial reports indicate that attackers may have blocked the roadway before detonating explosives, amplifying the impact on civilians caught in traffic. Emergency responders rushed victims to nearby hospitals, with several reported in serious condition.
Government sources have linked the attack to dissident factions of the former FARC rebel movement, groups that rejected the 2016 peace deal and continue to operate in rural areas. These factions have been blamed for a recent uptick in violence across the country.
President Gustavo Petro condemned the bombing, calling it a terrorist act and vowing a decisive response. Security forces have since been deployed across the region to prevent further attacks and restore order.
The incident comes just weeks before Colombia’s presidential elections, raising concerns about security and political stability. Analysts warn that armed groups have historically used violence to influence electoral processes, particularly in regions where state control is limited.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing as they work to identify those responsible and determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.







