U.S. State Dept. Issues Safety Warning in Colombia
The U.S. State Department has recently issued a safety warning following a string of suspicious deaths in Colombia. Between November and December 2023, eight Americans died under suspicious circumstances in Medellin. These deaths have been categorized as either homicides or “involuntary” drug overdoses. While the deaths are not believed to be directly linked, several of them point to a common factor: the use of online dating apps. Criminals have been using these apps to lure tourists and visitors into public places, such as hotels, restaurants, and bars. These places are typically considered safe in other parts of the world, but unfortunately, several U.S. citizens have fallen victim to assaults, robberies, and even murders by the people they had arranged to meet for a date.
Deaths of Americans in Colombia Linked to Dating Apps
The recent deaths in Medellin have raised concerns about the safety of using online dating apps in Colombia. U.S. officials believe that criminals are taking advantage of these apps to target unsuspecting tourists and visitors. By luring them into public places, criminals have been able to assault, drug, rob, and even kill their victims. The deaths in Medellin are not isolated incidents, as reports of similar crimes have also surfaced in Cartagena and Bogotá, the nation’s capital. It is important for individuals to be cautious and vigilant when using these apps, especially when meeting strangers in unfamiliar locations.
Crimes Against Foreign Visitors Increase in Colombia
The increase in crimes against foreign visitors is concerning U.S. officials. According to the State Department, thefts committed against foreign tourists have risen by 200% in the third trimester of 2023 compared to the previous year. Violent deaths of foreign visitors have also increased by 29%, with the majority of these being U.S. citizens. It is believed that these numbers may actually be higher, as many victims are too embarrassed to report the crimes to local authorities. This trend highlights the importance of taking precautions and being aware of potential dangers when visiting Colombia.
Online Dating App Crimes Not Limited to Medellin
While the recent deaths have occurred in Medellin, online dating app crimes are not limited to this city alone. Reports of similar incidents have been received in other popular tourist destinations in Colombia, such as Cartagena and Bogotá. This suggests that criminals are actively using these apps to target unsuspecting individuals throughout the country. It is important for travelers to exercise caution and remain vigilant, regardless of their location within Colombia.
U.S. Embassy Provides Safety Tips for Travelers to Colombia
In light of these alarming incidents, the U.S. Embassy in Colombia has provided a list of safety tips for travelers visiting the country. Among these tips, the embassy advises individuals to only meet with others in public places and to avoid isolated locations. Furthermore, if inviting someone into their residence or hotel room, travelers are encouraged to establish a visitor procedure with the hotel. It is also important for individuals to inform friends or family members of their plans, including details about the person they are meeting and the dating app they used. Additionally, the embassy urges victims of robberies not to resist, as doing so may increase the risk of being killed.
As of January 2, 2024, the United States has categorized Colombia as a Level 3 Travel Destination. This designation indicates that individuals should reconsider their travel plans due to the high levels of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping in the country. Travelers should familiarize themselves with the complete travel advisory before visiting Colombia in order to ensure their safety.
Analyst comment
Negative news. Market impact: Online dating app companies may experience a decrease in user trust in Colombia, leading to a potential decline in user activity and revenue. Tourism industry may also suffer as travelers reconsider their travel plans to Colombia, resulting in a decrease in hotel bookings and other travel-related services.
