Controlled explosion damages 20 houses in southern Colombia

Explosive device in Neiva (Photo: Diario del Huila)

Colombian police on Wednesday detonated an explosive devise allegedly planted by FARC guerrillas in the south-central city of Neiva, damaging around 20 houses in the process.

On Wednesday morning, Colombian police found a 50-kilo explosive devise close to a local church in the south of the city. The device was later detonated by police, causing minor damage to nearby buildings.

There were no reports of deaths or injuries as of Wednesday.

Authorities said the explosive device was planted by FARC rebels from the Teofilo Forero Castro Mobile Column, which is active in large parts of Huila, where Neiva is located, and the neighboring Caqueta department. Allegedly, the rebels tried to activate the device as a police patrol passed the spot. Police said two individuals were arrested on Wednesday, accused of partaking in the thwarted attack.

Location of the bombs

Sources

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