{"id":113659,"date":"2024-06-26T08:05:38","date_gmt":"2024-06-26T12:05:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sitata.com\/?p=113659"},"modified":"2024-06-26T08:05:38","modified_gmt":"2024-06-26T12:05:38","slug":"medellins-hidden-dangers-crime-and-safety-in-colombias-transformed-tourist-hotspot","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sitata.com\/es\/medellins-hidden-dangers-crime-and-safety-in-colombias-transformed-tourist-hotspot\/","title":{"rendered":"Medell\u00edn\u2019s Hidden Dangers: Crime and Safety in Colombia\u2019s Transformed Tourist Hotspot"},"content":{"rendered":"

Medell\u00edn, Colombia, a city once synonymous with drug violence, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Yet, beneath the gleaming skyline and vibrant energy lurks a shadow\u2014a persistent risk for unsuspecting tourists. This piece will explore the potential dangers associated with travelling to Medell\u00edn, focusing on the prevalence of drugs, violent crime, and criminal activities targeting visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Alarming Statistics<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The statistics paint a concerning picture. In 2023, Medell\u00edn witnessed a violent death roughly every ten days, totaling 37 deaths annually. Disturbingly, 2024 has seen a significant escalation, with 29 violent deaths recorded by June alone, exceeding one death every seven days. Authorities attribute this rise to tourists seeking drugs, immersion in “narco-culture,” and prostitution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Criminal Exploitation of Tourists<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Criminal gangs in Medell\u00edn exploit tourists’ desires, leading them into perilous situations where high doses of narcotics are readily accessible. These drugs, often consumed in unsafe environments, can have fatal consequences. Over the past three decades, Medell\u00edn has evolved from a violent city into a popular destination for tourists and remote workers, attracting over 1.4 million visitors in 2022. However, local gangs capitalize on this influx, using dating apps like Tinder to target and rob foreigners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dangers of Scopolamine<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gangs frequently employ the drug scopolamine, also known as burundanga or “devil’s breath,” to disorient and incapacitate victims. This drug can be ingested, inhaled, or even blown into the face, leaving victims with no memory of events and vulnerable to robbery or worse. The surge in drug-aided robberies and deaths has drawn international attention, prompting warnings from embassies and dating apps. Local authorities and these platforms are now working together to enhance tourist safety, though victims often feel stigmatized and seek help from private investigators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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International Warnings <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The increasing number of drug-aided robberies, violence, and tourist deaths has prompted international warnings. The U.S. State Department categorizes Colombia<\/a> as a “Level 3: Reconsider” destination, highlighting crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping as major concerns. Similarly, the UK government<\/a> has issued advisories urging caution in Medell\u00edn and surrounding areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Precauciones de seguridad para los viajeros<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

These warnings serve as a stark reminder for travellers to prioritize personal safety. Here are some crucial precautions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n