Colombian Mayor Imposes Ban on Prostitution in Response to Disturbing Incidents
In Colombia, sex work involving consenting adults is legal. However, Colombian laws empower local governments to temporarily prohibit this activity in certain parts of the city if it is considered a threat to public order.
Mayor’s Decisive Action
Federico Gutierrez, Mayor of Medellín, has taken a decisive action by imposing a six-month ban on prostitution in two neighbourhoods. This action comes as Provenza and El Poblado localities, popular with tourists, have witnessed a rise in disturbing incidents, including an American man found with two minor girls in a Medellin hotel room.
Trigger for the Ban
The incident involving the American man and the minor girls has triggered the ban. The event has sent shockwaves through the community, leading to the detainment of the American man for 12 hours before he escaped to Florida. The investigation into this case is ongoing, with Mayor Gutierrez urging Colombian authorities to expedite the process.
Combatting Sexual Exploitation
Mayor Gutierrez emphasized the need for the ban to combat the sexual exploitation of children in these areas known for sex workers. He stated, “We have to recover the control of this area. It is also very important for us to protect the community.” Gutierrez expressed sadness over the behavior of some individuals who believe they can act with impunity in Medellín.
Rising Concerns
The ban coincides with growing concerns about the risks associated with tourists engaging with sex workers through dating apps. The US Embassy in Bogota and the State Department have highlighted concerning deaths of private US citizens in Medellin, possibly linked to drug overdoses or suspected homicides, with some cases indicating involvement of online dating applications.