Colombia highway blast kills 20

A devastating explosion on a major highway in southwestern Colombia has left at least 20 people dead and dozens more injured.

President Gustavo Petro condemned the attack, which he attributed to a 'narco-terrorist' dissident group led by a former FARC commander known as 'Marlon.' The blast is part of a broader surge in violence targeting civilians and military personnel ahead of the country's presidential election.

Authorities have offered a record bounty for information leading to the capture of those responsible for the wave of attacks.

The escalating conflict has made security a primary concern for Colombian voters as they prepare to head to the polls next month.