The police clarified that the explosion was targeted. Meanwhile, Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder stated that initial reports indicate five people were killed and 36 others injured. He also announced a ban on large trucks entering the city for fear of further explosions. It is not yet clear who is behind the attack, but regional governor Dilian Francisca Toro described it as a ‘terrorist attack,’ adding, ‘Terrorism will not defeat us.’
It is noteworthy that last June, a leftist rebel group known for its responsibility for a wave of bombings and gunfire attacks in Cali and its surroundings announced its involvement, resulting in the deaths of seven people.
The group is among the dissident factions that rejected the 2016 peace agreement and have escalated their operations as the elections scheduled for 2026 approach.
