Hi Guys,
As I have done in the past, I am posting some security information that is reported by my company about travel in Colombia.
"Kidnaps on road highlight overland travel risks
Authorities have revealed that at least 30 people were kidnapped on roads over the recent holiday weekend (3-5 November). The two main leftist guerrilla groups, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the National Liberation Army (ELN) were reportedly responsible for most of the kidnaps. The incidents took place in the following regions: Antioquía, Cundinamarca, Tolima, Huila and coastal regions. The incidents highlight the risks of travelling outside main urban centres. Control Risks advises business personnel to avoid non-essential travel to rural areas, where the presence of the security forces is often minimal. If travel is unavoidable, personnel should opt for air transport. A number of national airlines offer regular flights between the main cities. The main Santa Fe de Bogotá-Medellín (Antioquía) highway remains especially problematic because of illegal roadblocks that are erected by the ELN near Cocorná, around 35 miles (57km) south-east of Medellín, in the hope of finding lucrative kidnap victims. Foreign business personnel should avoid all overland travel in this area."
take care,
mike
