BOGOTÁ: An explosive device detonated on a bus traveling along the Panamerican Highway in Cajibio, southwestern Colombia, resulting in 13 fatalities and at least 38 injuries, including five children.

The attack has been described by General Hugo López, commander of Colombia’s Armed Forces, as a 'terrorist act.'

The incident is attributed to the network of Iván Mordisco, one of Colombia's most wanted figures, along with the Jaime Martínez faction, both of which are dissident groups not adhering to the 2016 peace agreement.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack, labeling those responsible as 'terrorists, fascists, and drug traffickers.'

This event is part of a recent surge in violence targeting public infrastructure in the region.

Over the past two days, southwestern Colombia has seen at least 26 incidents, including attacks on police stations and civil aviation facilities.

These events have resulted in no fatalities but have caused significant material damage.

In response to the escalating situation, high-ranking officials, led by Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez, were meeting in Palmira when the explosion occurred.

Sánchez has vowed a strong response to these 'criminal acts designed to instill fear.'

Regional authorities are calling for increased national support, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures and intelligence operations against the escalating criminal activities.

Cauca and Valle del Cauca serve as critical hubs for illicit activities by various groups vying for control over transport routes leading to the port of Buenaventura, a key transit point for drugs bound for Central America and Europe.

The government has offered significant rewards for information leading to the capture of 'Marlon,' identified as the leader of the regional dissident group, and other individuals responsible for recent attacks in Cali and Palmira.

The situation underscores the complex and dangerous environment in Colombia's southwestern region.