Colombia's New Government Faces Explosive Attacks on Inaugural Day

Colombia's new administration, led by President Abelardo de la Espriella, was immediately confronted with a series of violent attacks just one day after his inauguration. Explosives targeted police stations and municipal toll booths in various regions, signaling a turbulent start for the new government.

The first incident occurred early Saturday morning when an unidentified group detonated explosives at a toll booth under construction on the Pan-American Highway, near where the president held his inauguration ceremony. While no casualties were reported, President de la Espriella denounced the act, stating on X that attacking national infrastructure hinders progress, mobility, and the peace of millions.

The Ministry of Defense reported another "terrorist attack" involving an explosives-laden vehicle at a construction site for a toll booth in Santander de Quilichao, Cauca, injuring two security guards. Tragically, sub-lieutenant Argemiro Rodelo Canchila later died from an explosive drone attack on the San Roque police substation in César. The fallen officer was recognized for his 18 years of dedicated service.

In Antioquia, Governor Andrés Julián Rendón reported a drone attack on the Porce III police station, attributed by him to the FARC's 36th Front. Rendón characterized the assault as a "provocation to the new government." President de la Espriella, who had pledged a strong stance against drug trafficking, crime, and "narcoguerrilla" in his inaugural address, also announced the capture of Héctor Bastidas, alias Bonito, a key figure in the illegal armed group Comandos de la Frontera. This capture, he stated, demonstrates the security forces' commitment to restoring peace and ending impunity.