Story perspectives

FARC-EMC Bombs Highway, 21 Killed; Petro Seeks Ecuador Link

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dissident FARC-EMC rebels bombed the Pan-American Highway between Cali and Popayán, killing at least 21 and injuring dozens.
President Gustavo Petro asked investigators to see if the explosives came from Ecuador.
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez offered a 5 billion-peso reward for information on suspect Iván Jacobo Idrobo Arredondo, alias “Marlon.”
Right-wing candidates called for tougher security, while Petro-aligned Iván Cepeda defended the “total peace” policy.

History

Historical Context

Colombia’s armed conflict began in 1964 and saw President Andrés Pastrana end formal talks with the FARC in 2002, after years of cease-fire attempts. A 2016 Havana accord halted large-scale fighting, but splinter groups such as the EMC persisted; about 2,500 dissidents remain active. President Gustavo Petro’s 2024 probe of the highway bombing reflects this lingering security challenge.

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Story summary

Dissident FARC-EMC rebels bombed the Pan-American Highway between Cali and Popayán, killing at least 21 and injuring dozens.
President Gustavo Petro asked investigators to see if the explosives came from Ecuador.
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez offered a 5 billion-peso reward for information on suspect Iván Jacobo Idrobo Arredondo, alias “Marlon.”
Right-wing candidates called for tougher security, while Petro-aligned Iván Cepeda defended the “total peace” policy.

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