Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has initiated a crackdown on migrants with irregular immigration status and foreign nationals suspected of criminal activities. In a cabinet meeting held in Barranquilla, de la Espriella instructed that coordinated operations involving police and migration authorities are to commence this week. The focus will be primarily on migrants engaged in criminal activities, followed by those who have not regularized their immigration status.
In addressing the broader issue of crime, President de la Espriella declared a tougher stance against criminal organizations linked to drug trafficking, illegal mining, extortion, and smuggling. He labeled these groups as terrorists, indicating a significant shift in the government’s approach to tackling organized crime.
The announcement has sparked criticism from opposition politicians and human rights advocates. They express concern that this policy shift could reverse Colombia’s previous efforts to support migrants, notably those fleeing from Venezuela. Given that Venezuelans comprise the majority of the migrant population in Colombia, with many living in irregular conditions, critics argue that the focus should be on regularizing their status rather than implementing widespread deportation measures.
The president’s remarks have also ignited discussions regarding the terminology and legal processes involved. Colombian law typically categorizes migrants without proper documentation as being in an “irregular” situation, rather than labeling them as “illegal.”