LANDMINE BLAST KILLS THREE COLOMBIAN SOLDIERS IN META

Three Colombian soldiers have been killed after an improvised explosive device detonated in the central Meta department, according to the Colombian Army. Four other military personnel were injured in the incident and evacuated for medical treatment. The attack occurred on Monday, September 21, when an infantry unit operating in a rural area was hit by an explosion in a location believed to contain improvised explosive devices.

The military said the three soldiers died at the scene, while the injured personnel were taken for medical attention. Authorities launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and the placement of the explosives. The incident occurred in an area where security forces have continued operations against armed groups involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities.

The Colombian government blamed a dissident faction of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as FARC, for the attack. The group is reportedly linked to a faction led by a guerrilla figure known by the alias Calarcá. Colombian authorities have continued to target FARC dissident groups that rejected the 2016 peace agreement that formally ended more than five decades of conflict between the government and the former rebel organisation.

The attack came more than a month after Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella launched a major military offensive against armed groups accused of involvement in drug trafficking. De la Espriella assumed office on August 7 after campaigning on a tougher approach to rebel and criminal organisations, while receiving support from the United States. His administration has intensified military operations in areas where armed groups continue to operate.

The latest violence highlights the security challenges that remain in parts of Colombia despite the 2016 peace agreement with the main FARC organisation. Several dissident factions have remained active and continued to engage in armed activities, particularly in remote areas. Colombian security forces are expected to maintain operations in affected regions as authorities work to identify those responsible for the latest attack and prevent further attacks on military personnel and civilians.