17 Jan 2019 | 05:05 PM UTC
Colombia: Death toll from suspected VBIED in Bogotá rises to eight January 17 /update 1
Authorities increase death toll from suspected VBIED attack at the Santander Police School in Bogotá to at least eight people with another 43 injured on January 17; no group immediately claims responsibility for the attack
Event
A suspected vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated at the Santander Police School in Bogotá at approximately 09:45 (local time) on Thursday, January 17. The explosion killed at least eight people and wounded at least 43 others. Security forces and emergency services have established a cordon in the vicinity of the blast, and officials are treating the incident as a terrorist attack. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the bombing. Officials report that the casualties figure may rise as recovery efforts continue. A heightened security presence is to be expected in Bogotá over the coming hours, particularly near the site of the attack.
Context
Various armed groups are active in Colombia, including drug cartels, right-wing militias, local gangs, paramilitary crime organizations (BACRIM), the ELN guerrilla group, and ex-FARC dissidents.
Advice
Individuals in Bogotá are advised to avoid the area of the blast, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to instructions and advice issued by their home governments.
