Colombia: Activists to hold protests in Bogota, Sept. 9-10

Event

Activists plan to hold multiple demonstrations in Bogota, Sept. 9, to commemorate the anniversary of the killing of a student during an encounter with police. The incident sparked major protests throughout Bogota, leading to the deaths of 12 people, as well as multiple acts of looting and vandalism in the city.

There are at least four protests confirmed for Sept. 9:

• March from the intersection of Avenida Ciudad de Cali and Avenida Suba to the Gaitana neighborhood, starting at 09:00

• Rally at Barrio Verbenal, starting at 12:00

• Rally at CAI Villa Luz, starting at 16:30

• March from Plaza Fundacional of Bosa to Punto Renacer, starting at 17:00

Protests are likely to continue Sept. 10.

Additionally, multiple unplanned demonstrations are likely to occur, especially in the Suba, Kennedy, Engativa, and Usme localities of Bogota. These demonstrations may lead to clashes with police, and may involve the looting on private and public property, especially attacks against public buses and Immediate Attention Commands (Comandos de Atention Inmediata, CAI), small police posts located throughout the city. Protests are possible in other major cities in Colombia, especially Medellin and Cali.

Heightened security throughout Bogota is likely, especially around government and police offices. The risk of clashes, looting and vandalism will increase significantly after dark. Transport and business disruptions are likely throughout Bogota Sept. 9.

Context

Police and demonstrators clashed during several protests late Sept. 8. The incidents occurred mainly around Bosa Brasilia, Portal Americas and the intersection of Avenida Ciudad de Cali and Avenida Suba, locations where protests are likely to continue Sept. 9-10. At least one CAI was attacked, and three police officers and dozens of civilians were injured.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Confirm appointments before leaving your place of lodging. If you encounter a roadblock or demonstration leave the area immediately as violence is possible. Avoid public transportation in Bogota, Sept. 9-10. Strictly heed instructions of authorities.