Colombia Roundup: COVID cases, wildfires, criminal network, Pan American Games
New spike in COVID cases
The new variant of COVID, JN.1, is spreading rapidly worldwide, and Colombia is no exception. During the week of December 16 to 22, 7,930 new cases and 80 deaths due to COVID were recorded, as reported by El Colombiano. Authorities in cities like Barranquilla have stated that they are on alert after the holiday season.
Former senator freed from prison
Former senator Arturo Char was freed from prison on Monday, January 8, after a judge in Santa Marta ordered his release due to the expiration of terms, as reported by El Tiempo. His defense argued that 120 days had passed without resolving his legal situation. The politician is under investigation for alleged electoral corruption.
Forest fires in Antioquia
During the Three Kings' holiday weekend, Antioquia recorded eight wildfires. The largest occurred on Cerro de la Cruz in Copacabana, affecting approximately 15 hectares, according to El Colombiano. Carlos Ríos Puerta, the general director of the Administrative Department of Disaster Risk Management in Antioquia, stated that a total of 24 wildfires have been reported so far in 2024, with 20 involving vegetation. He also stated that authorities are monitoring the situation to prevent the rekindling of fires.
Criminal network in Cartagena
Authorities in Cartagena have dismantled an alleged criminal network accused of human trafficking. A German man and six Colombians are suspected of sexually exploiting underage and adult women and have been arrested. The network allegedly offered sex and drugs tourism packages to its clients, as reported by El Espectador.
Attempts to recover the Pan American Games
Efforts to recover the 2027 Pan American Games have intensified following Panam Sports' announcement that it was withdrawing the venue from Barranquilla due to the lack of two payments from Colombia. It is expected that President Gustavo Petro will announce an action plan on Tuesday, January 9, according to El Espectador. Pan-American confederations from various sports have also sent a letter to Panam Sports requesting reconsideration of the decision.
