Ombudsman Warns of Escalation of Violence in Cauca and Valle and Calls for Urgent Measures
The Ombudsman's Office warned of a severe deterioration of security in the departments of Cauca and Valle del Cauca, following a series of recent attacks with explosives and armed actions that have impacted communities and key routes in the region.
TL;DR
- The Ombudsman's Office reported a severe security deterioration in Cauca and Valle del Cauca due to recent explosive attacks and armed actions.
- A critical incident in Cajibío, Cauca, involved an explosive device detonated among vehicles, resulting in at least 10 deaths and over 17 injuries.
- Other recent incidents include explosive impacts on public transport vehicles, the detection of an explosive drone, threats of further attacks, and assaults on military bases and police installations.
- These escalating actions are directly impacting civilians, causing fear, mobility restrictions, and disruptions to daily life.
- The Ombudsman's Office attributes these events to intensified actions by illegal armed groups, including FARC dissidents, and criticizes institutional failures in prevention and response.
- Urgent calls were made to the government to activate protection measures on key routes like the Pan-American highway, ensure secure medical care for the wounded, strengthen state presence, and effectively implement Early Warning Alerts.
- The repetition of these attacks points to structural problems in the state's response, with the protection of life emphasized as the top priority.