A U.S. citizen was recently deported from Medellín after authorities identified him as a potential threat linked to sexual tourism. Medellín’s mayor, Federico Gutiérrez, confirmed the action, emphasizing the city’s commitment to protecting children, adolescents, and women from sexual exploitation.
In a decisive statement, Gutiérrez declared, “Medellín welcomes all those who come for responsible tourism, but not those who come to exploit our children, adolescents, and women.”
The successful intervention was facilitated by a warning from the United States government through the Angel Watch list, which tracks potential sexual predators or abusers. This collaboration led to the individual being inadmitted and sent back to his home country upon arrival at José María Córdova Airport.
Gutiérrez highlighted the significance of these actions in the broader fight against sexual exploitation. “With these actions, we are also fighting against sexual exploitation and protecting our children. That’s why we keep saying: Don’t even try, it’s a crime!”
The mayor expressed gratitude to Ambassador Francisco Palmieri and the team at the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá, stressing the importance of institutional collaboration. He praised the joint efforts with the Mayor’s Office of Medellín, the National Police, and Migración Colombia, which are producing tangible results in safeguarding the rights of children and adolescents in the city.
Medellín’s firm stance against child sexual exploitation will continue to be strengthened through coordinated and effective actions between local and national authorities.