Colombia, with its vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, is a country with a complex history that intertwines with the state of crime within its borders. From the Medellín and Cali cartels of the 1980s and 90s to the guerrilla warfare perpetrated by groups like FARC, the nation has faced significant challenges. Although there have been marked improvements in recent decades, understanding crime in Colombia requires an exploration of the statistics and trends that define the current scenario.

1. General Crime Trends:

Colombia, once infamous for its high crime rates, has seen a considerable decline in certain types of crime, especially homicides.

• Homicide Rates: At its peak in the 1990s, Colombia had one of the highest homicide rates in the world. However, by 2019, the rate had fallen to around 25 per 100,000 inhabitants from highs of over 70 in previous decades. Despite this improvement, some regions continue to face challenges.
• Kidnappings: Kidnappings, once a rampant issue due to guerrilla activities, saw a sharp decrease. In the year 2000, there were 3,572 recorded kidnappings, but by 2019, this number had fallen to under 100.

2. Violent Crimes:

Apart from homicides, Colombia still grapples with other violent crimes:

• Assaults and Robberies: Urban centers, especially Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, have seen increasing reports of muggings and street crime. Tourists are often advised to exercise caution.
• Sexual Offenses: Colombia witnessed around 45 cases of sexual violence per 100,000 inhabitants in 2019. The real figures could be higher due to underreporting.

3. Drug-Related Crimes:

Colombia’s association with narcotics is well-known. The narcotics trade has long been a central issue:

• Coca Production: In 2019, the United Nations reported that coca crops covered 154,000 hectares in Colombia.
• Drug Trafficking: While notorious drug cartels from the late 20th century have been largely dismantled, newer groups and gangs have taken their place, trafficking cocaine and other drugs to the U.S., Europe, and other regions.

4. Territorial and Gang Disputes:

Various regions in Colombia continue to face violence due to territorial disputes:

• ELN and FARC Dissidents: Despite peace agreements, splinter groups from FARC and ELN guerrillas continue to operate in parts of the country, involved in drug trafficking, illegal mining, and other illicit activities.

5. Government Response:

The Colombian government has undertaken multiple measures to combat crime:

• Peace Agreements: The 2016 peace agreement with FARC aimed to end five decades of conflict, leading to the disarmament of a significant portion of FARC militants.
• Increased Military and Police Operations: Targeting drug production regions, trafficking routes, and criminal gangs, these operations aim to dismantle criminal networks.

While Colombia has made commendable progress in battling its crime rates and enhancing security, it’s a nation still healing from decades of internal conflict and the far-reaching effects of the drug trade. Continued efforts, both nationally and internationally, are crucial to support Colombia in its journey towards lasting peace and security.