The Colombian drug cartels significantly intensified their violent campaign against the Colombian government, notably under the leadership of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar. Facing mounting pressure from government efforts to curtail the rampant drug trade, the cartels reiterated their commitment to fighting back with lethal force. This declaration of 'total war' signified a profound escalation in hostilities, with the cartels escalating tactics that included targeted killings of politicians and judges, as well as public bombings aimed at government institutions. The violence reached unprecedented levels, creating a climate of fear and chaos across the country.

The government’s crackdown efforts were fueled by rising national and international concern over drug trafficking's grave impact on Colombian society. The Public Ministry reacted to this declaration by reinforcing police measures and collaborating with U.S. authorities to dismantle cartel operations. As violence surged, the response included tragic instances of collateral damage, impacting innocent civilians and further escalating the cycle of violence. The government struggled to maintain control amidst threats from powerful cartels, which undermined not only national security but also the broader social fabric of Colombia.

By declaring this war, the drug barons aimed to destabilize the government and instigate fear within authorities, hoping to negotiate a more favorable status for their illicit operations. This marked a pivotal moment in Colombia's ongoing struggle with narcotrafficking, revealing the lethal dynamics between the state and organized crime, and foreshadowing several years of brutal conflict in the country.