Authorities in Colombia reported Sunday that the death toll from a bus bombing in the country’s southwest has risen to 20, as violence continues to escalate in the region, as reported by Fox News.

The attack took place Saturday along the Pan-American Highway in the municipality of Cajibio, located in the Cauca region. Officials said an explosive device detonated on a bus traveling through the area, resulting in multiple casualties.

According to regional governor Octavio Guzmán, the victims include 15 women and five men. Guzmán also stated that 36 people were injured in the blast, with three individuals currently receiving treatment in intensive care. Five of the injured are minors who are expected to recover.

Guzmán confirmed the updated casualty figures in a statement and announced a period of mourning in response to the attack. Three days of mourning were declared Sunday in honor of those killed.

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Colombia’s Institute of Legal Medicine is working to identify the victims, with specialists including dentists, anthropologists, and forensic doctors involved in the process.

The bombing is part of a broader surge in violence in the region. Authorities reported that more than two dozen attacks have occurred over the past three days in southwestern Colombia, highlighting ongoing instability.

The Cauca region has long been a focal point for illegal armed groups competing for control of territory tied to coca cultivation and drug trafficking routes. The area’s access to sea and river corridors has made it a strategic location for operations linked to shipments bound for Central America and Europe.

Gen. Hugo López, commander of Colombia’s armed forces, described the bombing as a “terrorist act.” He attributed the attack to a network associated with an individual known as “Iván Mordisco,” who is considered one of the country’s most wanted figures.

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López also cited the involvement of the Jaime Martínez faction, a dissident group stemming from the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.

International organizations have also responded to the incident. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights issued a statement condemning the attacks against civilians and called for a full investigation.

The statement urged authorities to “guarantee justice for the victims” as efforts continue to address the wave of violence.

Officials have not released additional details regarding potential suspects taken into custody or further developments tied to the case. Investigations remain ongoing as security forces continue operations in the region.

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The latest attack underscores the continued challenges faced by Colombian authorities in maintaining security in areas where armed groups remain active and competing for control.

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