Latest News

Colombia’s top Grammy Artists banned from entering Maduro’s Venezuela

By The City Paper Staff - March 5, 2025

The Venezuelan regime of Nicolás Maduro has banned prominent Colombian Grammy-winning artists, including Juanes, Carlos Vives, Maluma, and Silvestre Dangond, from entering the country. The ba announced by Diosdado Cabello, Venezuela’s Minister of the Interior, accuses the artists of supporting the opposition and inciting political instability.

Trump Tariffs: A looming crisis for Colombian farmers and women workers

By Richard Emblin - March 4, 2025

U.S. tariffs on Colombian agricultural exports, including coffee and flowers, threaten thousands of jobs, particularly for women in rural areas. The peso faces devaluation, and China may seize the opportunity to expand its influence as Colombia seeks alternative trade partners.

Colombia’s AG ordered to provide information on 546 disappeared members of security forces

By Richard Emblin - March 3, 2025

Colombia’s Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) gave the Attorney General’s Office 45 days to provide information on 546 disappeared members of the armed forces, aiming to advance their identification and ensure victims’ rights to truth and justice.

From vandalism to gang violence: Bogotá’s perception of insecurity on the rise

By Richard Emblin - February 28, 2025

Bogotá’s insecurity crisis worsens as masked attackers vandalize the historic Tren de la Sabana near Corferias. Mayor Galán implements new security measures, but rising homicides and gang violence fuel public concern. Authorities debate reinstating motorcycle passenger restrictions to curb crime.

U.S and UK intel lead Colombian Police to alias “Terror” of Gulf Clan

By The City Paper Staff - February 25, 2025

Colombia’s National Police, backed with U.S. and U.K. intelligence, killed Gulf Clan leader Oliverio Isaza Gómez, alias “Terror,” in Antioquia. The raid dealt a major blow to drug trafficking and organized crime, disrupting the clan’s expansion in Magdalena Medio.

Bogotá could lift water rationing in April, cautions Mayor Galán

By The City Paper Staff - February 24, 2025

Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán cautioned that water rationing in the Colombian capital could end in April as the Chingaza reservoir system continues to recover. Water rationing was implemented in April, 2024, as the city experienced a severe drought.

Colombia opens peace talks with paramilitary Self-Defense Forces of Sierra Nevada

By Richard Emblin - February 24, 2025

The Colombian government of President Petro has launched peace talks with the Self-Defense Forces of the Sierra Nevada (ACSN), aiming to dismantle the group’s criminal activities in the world’s highest coastal mountain range and reintegrate its members, amid escalating violence and territorial disputes with armed groups.

ELN attacks in Cúcuta reveal armed control over Colombian border city

By The City Paper Staff - February 21, 2025

Cúcuta grapples with a deep security crisis after ELN attacks injure seven. The government deploys thousands of police and soldiers, offering rewards for information on those responsible for the escalating violence in the Colombian border city.

ELN flag spotted on Bogotá’s AutoNorte, Cali denounces FARC clandestine radio

By The City Paper Staff - February 14, 2025

Authorities in Bogotá closed a major motorway after an ELN flag was found near the city’s northern entrance. No explosives were discovered. Police are investigating possible criminal group involvement. Similar flags and a bomb cylinder were found in other regions on anniversary of Camilo Torres’ death.

U.S. to designate Colombia’s Gulf Clan as a Terrorist Organization

By The City Paper Staff - February 13, 2025

The Trump administration designates eight Latin American gangs, including Colombia’s Gulf Clan, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, escalating U.S. counterterrorism efforts against narcotrafficking, human smuggling, and organized crime in the Western Hemisphere.

In Colombia’s Chocó, ELN landmines trap communities in fear

By Richard Emblin - February 12, 2025

Landmines planted by the ELN guerrilla across Colombia’s Chocó have trapped communities in fear, preventing farming and medical evacuations. Governor Nubia Córdova urges government action as violence displaces thousands. Troop deployments fall short, highlighting the need for demining and social investment.

Defence Minister resigns as ELN violence engulfs Colombia’s Chocó

By The City Paper Staff - February 11, 2025

Colombia faces escalating violence as ELN guerrillas and the Clan del Golfo battle for control in Chocó, displacing thousands and confining over 50,000 residents. Defense Minister Iván Velásquez resigns amid worsening security, leaving vulnerable communities at the mercy of illegal armed groups.

Petro’s cabinet in turmoil as resignations follow Benedetti’s appointment

By The City Paper Staff - February 10, 2025

President Gustavo Petro’s government faces turmoil after key ministers resigned in protest of Armando Benedetti’s appointment as Chief of Staff. Benedetti, implicated in charges of illegal campaign financing, and dubious ties to Venezuela’s Maduro regime, has deepened divisions within Petro’s administration.

Bogotá’s iconic Teatro Mayor presents its 2025 season

By The City Paper Staff - February 6, 2025

Teatro Mayor celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2025 with a diverse program featuring top international performers, festivals, and collaborations. Highlights include classical music, dance, and theater productions, reinforcing its role as a premier cultural hub in Latin America.

Aguardiente Amarillo: A legendary Colombian spirit takes on “Goliath” and wins

By Richard Emblin - February 5, 2025

Colombia’s iconic Aguardiente Amarillo will now be available nationwide after a historic ruling by the Constitutional Court, allowing the spirit to reach new markets beyond its coffee region origins, boosting the country’s rich liquor heritage.

Bogotá prepares for first No Car Day of 2025 on Thursday

By The City Paper Staff - February 4, 2025

On February 6, Bogotá will hold its first No Car and No Motorcycle Day of 2025, encouraging alternative transportation. TransMilenio and SITP will operate at full capacity, while 101 km of special bike lanes and 3,300 shared bicycles will be available.