The perpetrators and masterminds behind the attack remain unknown. A few hours later, five police officers were executed by a criminal gang in another part of the country, alerting the government to a clear surge in violence in recent hours.

The attack took place on April 25 on the Pan-American Highway and comes on the heels of other attacks carried out in the same area. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and other politicians say the attacks may be intended to influence the upcoming presidential election, scheduled for May 31.

Two years after declaring an internal armed conflict, the results of Noboa’s government have not been as expected. Faced with this reality, the executive branch promises a new plan to alleviate violence in the country.

Paradoxically, the government calls its security plan a success, while requesting the entry of foreign troops to reduce internal violence.