Explosion Injures 11 Near Colombian Police Station Ahead of Presidential Inauguration

On Saturday, a truck loaded with explosives detonated near a police station in Cucuta, Colombia, close to the border with Venezuela. The explosion occurred six days prior to the inauguration of President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella. At least 11 people were injured, including eight police officers and three civilians, according to local security officials.

George Quintero, the security secretary for the Norte de Santander department, described the act as both atrocious and violent. Damage was observed in the area, with witnesses seeing flames and damaged building facades.

President-elect de la Espriella strongly condemned the attack, stating, “Terrorism will not intimidate Colombia.” Authorities are offering over $32,000 for information leading to the suspects’ capture.

De la Espriella, a right-wing lawyer with the support of former U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to intensify Colombia’s fight against guerrillas and drug-trafficking organizations. Colombia remains the world’s top cocaine producer. He seeks to develop military alliances with the United States and Israel to meet these challenges.

Meanwhile, outgoing President Gustavo Petro was in Cuba, discussing U.S. policies with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel. Petro has not commented on the bombing.

Petro’s term marked Colombia’s first leftist administration, which attempted peace negotiations with armed groups and proposed changes in tackling drug trafficking. These efforts contrast with de la Espriella’s plans.

The upcoming inauguration ceremony for de la Espriella will take place in Cali, located in a region troubled by gang and guerrilla conflicts. It will feature substantial security measures, involving approximately 11,000 soldiers and police officers.

Attempts to host the ceremony in the conflict-prone department of Cauca were not authorized by Petro. Guerrilla groups have issued threats against the president-elect, who intends to end peace talks initiated by Petro’s government.

The recent election campaign had been marked by significant violence, including bombings and assassination attempts. In a notable incident in 2025, senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a right-wing presidential candidate, was killed in Bogota.