Overview

• Authorities confirm a police Black Hawk on a coca-eradication mission in Antioquia was hit by an explosive-laden drone, with local officials reporting 12 officers killed.
• Hours later, a vehicle-borne bomb detonated outside Cali’s Marco Fidel Suárez military aviation school, leaving at least six dead and more than 60 injured, prompting citywide security measures and reward offers.
• President Gustavo Petro initially pointed to the Gulf Clan before citing FARC dissidents, including the EMC’s Carlos Patiño Front, while the defense minister issued similar updates as intelligence evolved.
• Investigators say residents detained at least one suspect in the Cali attack, identified as Walter Steban Yonda Ipia, as probes continue and additional arrests are pursued.
• The twin attacks highlight expanding use of drones and powerful explosives by armed groups as coca cultivation reaches a record 253,000 hectares, with the government signaling tougher designations and prosecutions.