The Colombian Caribbean city of Santa Marta was largely brought to a standstill after an illegal armed group threatened businesses and transportation operators following the death of one of its senior leaders in a military operation. Shops remained closed, public transportation was heavily disrupted and many residents stayed home as authorities increased the security presence across the city.
Businesses and Transport Disrupted
Santa Marta, a major tourist destination on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, experienced a second day of significant disruption as threats from the Conquering Self-Defense Forces of the Sierra Nevada (ACSN) affected normal commercial activity.
The group, which authorities say has more than 800 members, called for businesses and transportation services to shut down following an operation in which 13 of its members were killed, including one of its leaders.
Police reported that armed individuals attacked businesses and set fire to public transportation and cargo vehicles. The incidents contributed to widespread fear among residents, drivers and business owners.
The disruption has also affected tourism, an important part of Santa Marta’s local economy. With transportation services limited and businesses closed, residents and visitors faced difficulties moving around the city.
Government Sends More Security Forces
Authorities responded by significantly increasing the presence of police and military personnel in Santa Marta and nearby areas.
President Abelardo De La Espriella ordered the deployment of security forces after the armed group announced its retaliatory measures. Around 1,100 members of the Armed Forces and National Police were initially deployed, while subsequent reports indicated that the security presence in the wider region had risen to more than 1,500 personnel.
The president also traveled to Santa Marta and participated in security operations as officials attempted to reassure residents and restore normal activity.
The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá issued a security alert covering Santa Marta and surrounding parts of Magdalena and La Guajira, advising people to avoid areas affected by the unrest.
Fear Continues Across the Tourist City
Despite the security deployment, many businesses remained closed and streets were unusually quiet. Schools and public services were also affected as residents remained cautious about traveling.
The situation follows a military operation targeting the ACSN, with authorities identifying the group’s leadership among those killed. The group has a presence in parts of Colombia’s Caribbean region and has been associated by authorities with criminal activities including extortion and drug trafficking.
Authorities are working to restore transportation, reopen businesses and reassure residents while maintaining heightened security across Santa Marta and surrounding areas.
For a city heavily dependent on tourism and commerce, the disruption has raised concerns about the immediate impact on businesses, workers and visitors as authorities seek to bring daily life back to normal.
