Security Alert:  Reminder of the Continued Threat of Crime in Colombia

Location:  Colombia-Countrywide

Event:  Crime in Colombia

The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the continued threat of crime throughout Colombia.  Recently, robberies conducted by armed individuals, have occurred in popular Bogota restaurants, cafés, and breweries, frequented by tourists and the expat community.

U.S. citizens should be vigilant, maintain heightened situational awareness, and incorporate strong personal security practices into their daily activities.

In the unfortunate event of a robbery, U.S. citizens should prioritize personal safety by refraining from resistance and promptly surrendering all valuables without hesitation.  Resistance can result in an abrupt escalation of violence.  Prioritizing compliance enhances the likelihood of a safer outcome in such situations.

Should a U.S. citizen find themselves in the vicinity of a shooting, it is crucial to maintain composure.  U.S. citizens are advised to adopt a prone position on the ground and actively seek cover or concealment.

U.S. citizens should always be alert to the possibility that criminal organizations and terrorist groups may conduct attacks with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.  While terrorists have not specifically targeted private U.S. citizens, the attacks could result in unintended victims.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a level three travel advisory for Colombia and recommends that U.S. citizens reconsider travel due to crime and terrorism and exercise increased caution due to civil unrest and kidnapping.

The full advisory is available at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Colombia.html .

Actions to Take: 

• Keep a low profile.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid parking on the street, utilize parking lots with attendants, and keep valuables out of sight.
• Limit the amount of information shared with any unknown callers and/or strangers.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.  Remain attentive when entering and departing residences.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
• Limit the use of your cellphone while out in public, especially on the street.
• Only carry the cash and credit cards that you require for your day’s activities.
• Do not resist physically any robbery attempt.
• Review your personal security plans.

Assistance:

• U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia
  Tel. +57-1-275-2000 or 601-275-2000
  acsbogota@state.gov
  https://co.usembassy.gov/
• U.S. Consular Agency, Barranquilla
  conagencybarranquilla@state.gov
• U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
  1-888-407-4747 or 1-202-501-4444
• Colombia Country Information    
• Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive security updates
• Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.