Colombian soldier found alive after six days missing in Antioquia

Professional soldier Andrés Casterbondo Macías has been found alive in the rural area of Segovia, Antioquia, after being missing for six days. The Colombian National Army confirmed he was located on Saturday, October 24, in the Las Palmas district.

Casterbondo disappeared on October 18 in the Villa Severa district following an attack involving explosives launched from drones. The Army's First Division had activated both land and air search operations after losing contact with the soldier during the incident. Preliminary reports suggest the attack was carried out by alleged members of the FARC dissidents' 37th Front.

During his time in the mountains, Casterbondo reportedly survived by eating coconuts and seeking shelter under trees. While his initial medical assessment indicated he was in good health, the region remains under significant security pressure due to territorial disputes between various armed groups, including the Clan del Golfo, FARC dissidents, and the ELN.