Escalation of Attacks in Colombia
Colombia was rocked by two major attacks on Thursday, August 21, 2025. The first involved a car bomb explosion near the Marco Fidel Suárez Air Force School in Cali. Shortly afterward, a Colombian police Black Hawk helicopter was shot down by an armed drone in the Antioquia region. These incidents left at least 18 people dead and dozens injured, worsening the country’s fragile security situation.
The attacks gained international attention as they highlighted the escalation of armed groups adopting modern technology such as drones. The Colombian government accused FARC dissident factions, particularly the 36th Front, of orchestrating the deadly assaults.
Details of the Cali Bombing
The car bomb detonated in Cali caused severe damage to military facilities and surrounding buildings. The blast killed five to six people and injured more than 70 others. Cali’s mayor immediately declared a state of emergency, tightened security, and announced a reward of 400 million pesos for information leading to the capture of those responsible.
The explosion also damaged nearby shops. Images circulating on social media showed thick plumes of smoke, destroyed vehicles, and civilians running for safety. This incident has been described as one of the deadliest attacks in Cali in recent years.
Police Helicopter Downed in Antioquia
The second attack occurred in Amalfi, Antioquia. A Colombian police Black Hawk helicopter conducting a coca crop raid was targeted by an armed drone. The drone strike set the aircraft ablaze midair, killing 12 police officers onboard.
Official reports stated that this attack underlined the growing capabilities of criminal groups using drones in offensive operations. According to Wall Street Journal, there have been over 300 incidents involving armed drones in Colombia since April 2025.
FARC Dissidents Suspected
The Colombian government directly blamed FARC dissidents who rejected the 2016 peace accord. President Gustavo Petro said the attacks demonstrated strong resistance from armed groups still controlling coca-producing regions.
The 36th Front, led by alias Calarcá, is believed to have played a major role in the Antioquia drone strike. Analysts note that drug trafficking remains the main source of funding behind these violent operations.
Casualties and Government Response
The attacks claimed around 18 lives, with 12 police officers killed in Antioquia and six fatalities reported in Cali. The number of injured exceeded 70.
The Colombian government deployed additional forces and declared open war against the armed groups responsible. The international community, through Reuters and AP News, condemned the attacks and voiced support for Colombia’s law enforcement efforts.
Implications for Regional Security
The twin attacks showed Colombia still struggles to maintain national security. While the 2016 peace deal once offered hope, the reality proves that armed groups remain highly active.
The use of armed drones marks a new phase in asymmetric warfare across Latin America. Security experts warn Colombia now faces a dangerous mix of narcotrafficking and advanced technology-based threats.
Conclusion
The Cali car bomb and the Antioquia drone strike reveal that Colombia’s internal conflict is far from over. The attacks demonstrate a dangerous escalation as criminal factions adopt modern warfare tools. The tragedy also serves as a global warning about the risks of combining narcotics, armed insurgency, and drone technology.
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