Colombia

Violent crime

Violent crime and gang activity is common.

‘Express kidnapping‘ also occurs. Criminals abduct people and force them to withdraw funds from ATMs before releasing them. People in taxis are a common target. Don’t resist or you may be killed or injured.

Robberies and assaults take place after victims accept spiked food, drinks, cigarettes or chewing gum.

Thieves use drugs, such as scopolamine, either by aerosol spray or paper handouts. These drugs can cause serious medical problems, including loss of consciousness and memory loss. Hotspots include nightclubs, bars, restaurants, public buses and city streets.

Hikers are sometimes robbed at gunpoint, including when hiking on trails in and around Bogotá. Reduce your risk by hiring a reputable, experienced tour guide.

The most dangerous departments (provinces) include:

• Antioquia
• Arauca
• Caquetá
• Cauca
• Chocó
• Guainía
• Guaviare
• Meta
• Nariño
• Norte de Santander
• Putumayo
• Valle de Cauca
• Vichada

Risks are lower in these departments:

• Medellín
• Popayan
• Quibdó
• Villavicencio
• Pasto
• Ipiales
• Cali

Drug-related criminal activity creates danger in:

• regions within 20km of the Venezuelan and Ecuadorian borders
• the port cities of Buenaventura and Tumaco

In these areas, criminal groups attack, extort, kidnap, detonate car bombs and damage infrastructure.

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• avoid travelling at night
• if possible, fly into Colombia during the day
• keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even while moving
• stay in reputable accommodation with good security
• try not to travel by road in rural areas (fly instead)
• be careful when travelling alone, using ATMs, or travelling in or near tugurios (slums)

Always be alert to your own safety and security.

If you suspect criminals have drugged you or your fellow travellers, get urgent medical help.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is also common. This occurs in major tourist areas, including at the airport in Bogotá and near hotels.

Organised criminals operate in urban areas, including Bogotá and Medellín.

Criminals pose as police officers, both in Bogotá and in popular tourist towns. People have reported harassment, theft and extortion.

Be alert on public transport. Don’t leave your luggage unattended, in overhead bins or under the seat on buses.

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government