Cali, Colombia is grappling with a surge in violence as authorities investigate two bombings within 24 hours targeting a police station and a media outlet [[1]]. The attacks, which injured three and caused property damage, follow recent arrests of alleged members of the “Jaime Martinez” FARC dissident group, raising fears of retaliation and underscoring the continued presence of armed groups in the region despite a 2016 peace accord [[1]]. the incidents are prompting increased security measures and a probe into connections between the bombings and the ongoing efforts to dismantle the remaining FARC factions [[3]].
Authorities in Cali, Colombia are investigating two separate bombings within a 24-hour period, raising concerns about escalating violence in the region. The incidents, targeting a police station and a radio station, come amid heightened security alerts following recent arrests of alleged FARC dissident members.
The latest attack occurred November 16 against the RCN radio and television station in the eastern part of the city, located in a former industrial zone. A low-powered explosive device detonated outside the building, causing damage to windows but no injuries to occupants or passersby, according to early reports.
Just hours earlier, an explosion at the main police station in eastern Cali injured three people – two police officers and one civilian. Authorities believe that bombing may be retaliation for the recent capture of key leaders within the “Jaime Martinez” FARC dissident group, as reported by Caracol Radio.
Police have launched intensive operations to identify those responsible for both attacks, and are reviewing security camera footage. The RCN station has been targeted with explosives in the past, officials noted.
Cali’s ombudsman, Gerardo Mendoza, condemned the attacks and urged authorities to take action to ensure the safety of media outlets in the region. “We reject this attack and ask the authorities for actions that guarantee the security of the media in the region,” Mendoza said. The attacks underscore the ongoing challenges to security and freedom of the press in Colombia.
The police station bombing took place near other government offices, including a justice center, according to Caracol Radio. Authorities are on high alert as they investigate potential connections between the bombings and recent arrests.
