Colombia: Bomb bus near Cali deactivated days before presidential inauguration

Colombian authorities successfully deactivated a bomb-laden bus carrying 420 kilograms of explosives in the Cauca department on August 5, 2026. The operation, named Prometeo, intercepted the vehicle on the Pan-American highway, preventing a potential attack just days before the presidential inauguration of Abelardo de la Espriella in Cali.

The National Police reported that the bus was fitted with seven cylinders containing ammonium nitrate. EFE news agency detailed that the Estado Mayor Central (EMC), the largest dissident faction of the former FARC, is believed to be responsible for preparing the explosive device. Authorities indicated the target was military and police installations in Cali.

The attack was allegedly ordered by "Iván Mordisco," the top leader of the EMC. His intention was reportedly to sabotage the president-elect's swearing-in ceremony and showcase the armed group's capabilities. During the operation, the bus, explosives, and alleged launching platforms were seized.

De la Espriella's inauguration ceremony is scheduled for Friday at the Arena USC, within the Universidad Santiago de Cali. Over 11,000 military and police personnel will be deployed to ensure security. The president-elect chose Cali for the ceremony as a show of support for the armed forces, given the region's vulnerability to armed groups and drug trafficking. The event is expected to be attended by Spanish King Felipe VI, several Latin American presidents, and international delegations.