The charming, tone-drenched neighborhoods of Provenza and El Poblado, nestled within Columbia’s second-largest city, have long been the heart of the city’s nightlife. Vibrant streets teeming with trendy bars, pulsating clubs and bustling throngs of tourists have etched an indelible image of charm and delight. Yet, beneath the city’s festive veneer lies a seedy underbelly – the rampant sexual exploitation of children.
In a resolute move to curb this unsettling issue, Federico Gutiérrez, Medellín’s Mayor, announced a ban on prostitution in these neighborhoods for a half-year period. This decision was fueled by disturbing reports of criminal networks taking advantage of minors, coercing them into the bleak world of sex work.
In a press conference packed with grim determination, Mayor Gutiérrez declared, “We have to recover the control of this area. It is also very important for us to protect the community.” A move which, although prostitution involving consenting adults is legal in Colombia, reinforces the power of local governments to momentarily outlaw this activity, especially when it poses a threat to public order.
This ban arrives on the heels of a deeply troubling incident. Just a few days prior, the haunting image of an American man discovered in a hotel room alongside two underage local girls – aged just 12 and 13 – sent shockwaves through the city. The man, a 36-year-old whose identity remains undisclosed, was apprehended and detained for 12 hours as part of an ongoing investigation. Amidst swirling rumors suggesting he had fled Columbia for Florida, Gutiérrez strongly urged authorities to expedite the inquiry.
A stern Gutiérrez expressed his concerns, saying, “It is sad to see how many people believe they can come to Medellín and do whatever they want.” His words echoed the growing sentiment as Medellín, home to approximately 3 million people, continues to draw an increasing number of international tourists, lured by the prospects of its tropical climate, economic affordability and exhilarating ambience.
Increased tourism in the city has, unfortunately, fueled the rapid growth of sex work. While some engage directly with sex workers on the city’s bustling streets, a worrying trend has emerged wherein unsuspecting tourists meet sex workers through dating apps, leading to increased instances of violence.
Earlier this year, in January, the U.S. State Department issued a rather chilling security alert warning travelers of potential risks associated with using dating apps within the city. The warning document followed eight American deaths in Medellín over the previous two months, citing nefarious practices such as drugging, kidnapping, or robbery of tourists being lured into unfamiliar settings under the pretense of a seemingly innocent date.
This latest move on behalf of Mayor Gutiérrez and the city of Medellín reaffirms a commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its residents and international guests, pledging unyielding resolve in the face of unspeakable exploitation.
