Ituango-Medellín road reopens after explosive device threat

Authorities have reopened the Ituango-Medellín road in northern Antioquia, Colombia, after it remained closed for approximately 48 to 50 hours due to an explosive device. Soldiers from the Colombian Army's Fourth Brigade and Seventh Division successfully neutralized the threat, which was reportedly left by FARC dissidents.

Antioquia Governor Andrés Julián Rendón credited the military and canine units for their work in securing the corridor. Officials identified the presence of FARC dissident fronts 18 and 36, as well as the Luis Hernando Rozo Bertel sub-structure of the Clan del Golfo, in the area. The deployment of drones and specialized explosive experts was necessary to manage the risk to the population and security forces.

In a separate incident of rising tension in the region, armed men in La Unión intercepted a public bus, forced passengers to disembark, and set the vehicle on fire. Governor Rendón noted that this area has not seen guerrilla presence for approximately two decades, raising questions regarding the identity and motives of those responsible.