Colombian military forces announced they have successfully neutralized five members of a militant group involved in a horrific bus bombing. The attack had resulted in the deaths of 20 civilians and injured 45 others.
Details of the Operation
The Military Forces of Colombia stated the neutralized individuals were part of the “Estructura Jaime Martínez,” an organized armed group. This group was notorious for its criminal activities, including vehicle theft along the Pan-American Highway and deploying drones with explosives. A video released by the authorities showed a collection of weapons that were seized during the operation.
The April 26 Attack
The military’s action was in response to a terror attack on April 26. An explosive device had detonated on a passenger bus traveling through the Cauca region. The attack claimed the lives of 15 women and five men, according to The Associated Press. Initial reports indicated that 36 people were injured; however, the military’s latest update confirmed 45 civilians were wounded.
Gen. Hugo López, commander of Colombia’s armed forces, condemned the attack as a “terrorist act,” blaming dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Specifically, he accused the Jaime Martínez faction and the network led by “Iván Mordisco,” a high-profile target in Colombia.
Call for Justice
The U.N. high commissioner for human rights has urged authorities to ensure justice for the victims. The suspects are accused of orchestrating the April attack, which resulted in dozens of casualties.
Southwestern Colombia remains turbulent, with illegal armed groups fighting for control over coca leaf cultivation areas and major drug trafficking routes to Central America and Europe.
The Associated Press has contributed to this report. Journalist Alexandra Koch, who specializes in breaking news, has reported on significant events that have impacted national conversations.