Colombia reports attacks in 3 departments, at least 5 killed

At least five people were killed in a series of attacks targeting civilians and security forces across three Colombian departments, including four in a bombing in Planadas, officials said Monday.

Among those killed in the Planadas attack was a 2-month-old infant, according to Tolima Governor Adriana Magali Matiz.

"It is with profound sorrow that I report the attack in Planadas has left a preliminary death toll of four people, including a baby just two months old," Matiz said on US social media platform X.

Four people were killed when an explosives-laden truck detonated near a military installation in Planadas, southern Tolima department, on Sunday night.

Colombia’s President Abelardo de la Espriella also reported attacks in Algeciras, Huila department, and three municipalities in Cauca.

In Algeciras, police officer Julian Esmith Castano Lopez was killed, while other police personnel and civilians were wounded, De la Espriella said.

He also reported attacks involving explosives and armed harassment in Balboa, La Sierra and Totoro, in southwestern Cauca department.

De la Espriella said the incidents threatened the safety of local communities.

He said the National Army and National Police deployed forces to restore public order, protect affected communities and secure the targeted areas.

He added that he had ordered a reinforced security presence, intensified military operations and special measures to prevent further attacks and regain territorial control.

The Colombian army's Fifth Division also condemned the bombing in Planadas, describing it as a "terrorist act."

In a statement, the military called the attack a "serious violation of human rights," saying it disregarded civilian safety and endangered military personnel stationed in the area.

Southern Tolima has long experienced unrest linked to dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, also known as FARC.

Military commanders previously attributed drone strikes carried out in Planadas in August to the guerrilla network.