Canada urges visitors to Colombia to exercise “high caution”

In a comprehensive update to its travel advisory on February 14, the Canadian government has issued a robust warning to its citizens planning to visit Colombia. The advisory emphasizes the need to exercise “a high degree of caution,” given the persistent high levels of crime and the risk of sexual exploitation of minors in Medellín.

Canadians are “strongly advised” to avoid all travel to specific border areas due to the considerable risk of kidnapping and violent crime associated with the presence of illegal armed groups and criminal organizations. These areas include:

Arauca: Region grappling with the influence of illegal armed groups, ELN, Second Marquetalia, Estado Mayor Central (FARC Dissidents).

Caquetá: Excluding the city of Florencia, where the risk of criminal activities is notably high.

Cauca: Excluding Popayan

Chocó: Excluding the towns of Nuquí, Bahía Solano, and Capurganá.

Venezuela Border: Within 50 km, excluding the city of Cúcuta, known for its strategic location and potential risks.

Panama Border: Within 100 km, posing risks due to illegal activities in border areas.

Ecuador Border: Within 50 km, excluding the border crossing at Ipiales, where heightened vigilance is essential.

Norte de Santander: Excluding the city of Cúcuta, a region marked by border complexities.

Port of Tumaco and Buenaventura: port cities where gangs are prevalent.

The “Regional advisory” provides nuanced guidance, cautioning against non-essential travel to specific areas in these departments and cities:

Antioquia: North of the city of Buriticá, west of highways 62 and 60 along borders with Chocó, Risaralda, and Caldas, with exceptions for the towns of Jardín, Andes, and Hispania.

Córdoba: South and west of the city of Montería.

Guainía, Guaviare, and Vichada: Departments where FARC dissidents and ELN operate.

The sexual exploitation of minors in Medellín is highlighted in the Canadian advisory, with specific references to where youngsters are at most risk. In January, the Mayoralty of Medellín banned the movements of all persons under the age of 18 between 7 pm and 5 am unless accompanied by their parents, legal guardians, and carrying proper identification.

The areas with mobility restrictions include El Poblado and Parque Lleras; parts of the Corredor vial de la 33; La Candelaria (Plaza de Botero and Parroquia de la Veracruz); parts of Corredor de la 70. If you are traveling with a minor in Medellin, make sure they carry proper identification and a photocopy of their passport.

The advisory delves into other security concerns, offering advice for travelers to mitigate threats while in Colombia:

Violent Crime: Cautioning against muggings and assaults, even in seemingly safe areas. Recommendations include avoiding walking alone in isolated areas, dressing modestly, and keeping valuables out of sight.

Petty Crime: Highlighting the common occurrence of pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab incidents. Travelers are advised to secure belongings, stay in reputable accommodations, and keep windows and doors locked.

Kidnapping: Recognizing the persistent risk, particularly targeting foreigners. Special emphasis is placed on choosing secure accommodations and taking enhanced security measures for business travelers.

Express Kidnappings: Warning of the frequent occurrence of express kidnappings, especially in affluent and tourist areas. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when hailing taxis and remain calm if threatened by armed criminals.

Illegal Armed Groups: Identifying the major risk posed by these groups, with recommendations to stay on well-traveled paths and remain aware of surroundings when visiting remote locations.

There is also a comprehensive guidance on fraud prevention, credit card and ATM fraud, and warning of fraudulent police officers, as well as section on spiked food and drinks. Travelers are encouraged to exercise vigilance when handling credit cards or accessing an ATM in public areas.

The advisory mentions boating safety in popular destinations such as Guatapé (Antioquia); Barú and Cartagena and Santa Marta (on the coast), and the importance for visitors to choose a reputable boating company, ensure tour operators follow up-to-date safety regulations, and not to board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy.

In terms of public transportation, the overall recommendation is that it “isn’t safe” and tourists should avoid city buses as they are frequent targets for theft, and rural buses as they are frequently stopped by armed groups. “If you must take an overnight bus, keep your belongings close, not on the floor or in storage compartments, as they could be stolen while you sleep,” states the advisory.

The updated security assessment on Colombia comes during the same week a Canadian citizen is suspected of murdering a 20-year-old woman in Medellín and abandoning her body in a suitcase. Jesse Gilbert Wiseman left the country for Central America and an Interpol Blue Alert has been issued for his arrest.

On Tuesday, 60-year-old Salo Lloyd died in a Medellín hospital after suffering severe trauma to his head, death that is being considered ‘suspicious’ given where Mr. Lloyd was found and the possibility that he may have fallen while intoxicated.

Seven foreigners have died in Medellín this year and cases that involved online dating, spiked drinks with Scopolamine (Burundanga), and other incapacitating drugs. “Thieves often work in teams, with women easing the victim into a false sense of security,” warns the advisory.