A Dog Lost a Paw, but Saved Hundreds of Lives by Finding a Bomb (4 photos)

A four-legged warrior has been hailed as a hero in Colombia. The dog discovered a bomb hidden by rebels. Sanson saved hundreds of soldiers and civilians, but lost a paw in the explosion. It happened in the mountainous region of Antioquia just two days after a previous incident in which a donkey was used as a live explosive device.





Sanson was accompanying soldiers on a reconnaissance mission when the explosion occurred.

According to a statement from the National Liberation Army (ELN), the explosives were planted on a path frequented by locals.

Despite serious injuries, including a shattered paw, the dog managed to crawl to its handler, soldier Carlos Eduardo Beleño.



The Second Division of the National Army reported on social media: "Our four-legged hero lost a paw, but saved the lives of 36 soldiers and residents of the village of La Raya in Yondo-Antioquia."

Sanson underwent emergency surgery, which resulted in the amputation of one of his limbs. He is now recovering. The military released a photo of the injured dog being treated at a veterinary clinic.





Officials said the roadside bomb violated international humanitarian law. It put both military and civilians at risk.

The National Liberation Army has about 6,000 fighters. The left-wing organization has been waging an armed struggle against the Colombian government for decades.

Peace talks between the government and the rebels broke down earlier this year after violent attacks, including raids near the Venezuelan border that left dozens dead.



Sanson's bravery touched the hearts of people in Colombia, and his actions were widely praised on social media.

The army added: "Sanson will no longer be able to serve, but his legacy will live on in every soldier he bravely protected."