Major Crackdown in Medellín Center Targets Sexual Exploitation
April 20, 2024A large-scale operation aimed at combating sexual exploitation took place in Medellín’s city center on the night of April 18th. This marks the third major operation of its kind in the city this year.
The focus of the operation was the area between La Veracruz Church and Botero Plaza, a popular tourist destination.
The operation involved over 150 personnel from a collaboration of agencies, including the National Police, Secretaries of Security, Health, Social Inclusion, Control and Territorial Management, and Public Spaces, the Risk Management Office (Dagrd), Migration Colombia, and the District Attorney’s Office.
“We are continuously conducting operations across the city to implement controls against the sexual and commercial exploitation of children and adolescents,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Mauricio Rodríguez, operational commander of the Metropolitan Police of the Aburrá Valley.
The operation encompassed inspections of commercial establishments, hotels, hostels, and lodgings. Authorities verified compliance with regulations, the absence of minors, and the identification of both Colombian and foreign individuals.
Results of the operation include:
- Six minors transferred to family protection services.
- 25 adults relocated to the CTP (protective care centers).
- One arrest for personal injuries.
- Six commercial establishments temporarily closed for lack of required documentation.
Security Secretary Manuel Villa underscored the city’s commitment to fighting crime, citing positive statistics in the downtown area this year.
This operation aligns with broader initiatives by the Medellín Mayor’s Office to combat child sexual exploitation.
