The United States Department of State updated its travel alert for citizens of the country wishing to travel to Colombia and drew attention to several key aspects such as travel restrictions for its government officials. South American country.
The entity mentions that United States government employees may not use motorcycles, take taxis on the streets, or use buses while in Colombian territory.
However, the warning, which is perhaps its most serious, points to places in the country it tells its citizens not to go.
“Do not travel to the departments of Arauca, Cauca (except Popayan) and Norte de Santander due to crime and terrorism,” the alert noted.
The department asked its citizens not to travel to the border areas with Venezuela (where parts of Norte de Santander and Arauca are actually located) due to the risk of crime, kidnapping and arrest while crossing from Colombia.
US officials have noted that violent crimes, such as homicide, assault and armed robbery, are rampant in the South American country. “Organised criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery and kidnapping, are common in some areas.”
“The terrorist organizations National Liberation Army (ELN), the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP), Segunda Marquetalia, as well as the Clan del Golfo and other criminal organizations continue to operate and carry out attacks in Colombia,” he refers to the department.
The government body states that these groups “attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports and other areas”. Can.” ,
“While terrorists have not specifically targeted private US citizens, attacks can result in unintended victims,” he clarified.
The department also reported that demonstrations regularly take place across the country “for a variety of political or economic issues”.
“Demonstrations can close roads and highways, often without warning or an estimated time for reopening. The closures significantly reduce access to public transport and can disrupt travel within and between cities. Protests can turn violent and result in deaths and injuries,” he explained.
The alert for most areas is located, in this sense, at level three in which Americans are asked to “rethink their travel”.
However, there is level four for Arauca, Norte de Santander and Cauca. In this situation, the department is categorical with its citizens: “Do not travel.”
