Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has initiated a crackdown on migrants with irregular immigration statuses and foreign nationals suspected of criminal activities. In a recent cabinet meeting held in Barranquilla, he directed police and migration authorities to launch coordinated operations targeting these individuals, with plans to begin this week. The president emphasized that the main focus would be on migrants linked to criminal acts, followed by those who have not legalized their immigration status.
In addition to the measures on immigration, President de la Espriella announced an intensified stance against criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, illegal mining, extortion, and smuggling. He declared that these groups would be treated as terrorists under his administration, highlighting a significant shift in strategy to combat organized crime.
The new immigration policy has sparked criticism from opposition politicians and human rights advocates. Concerns have been raised that this approach could jeopardize Colombia’s historically supportive stance towards migrants, particularly those fleeing the crisis in Venezuela. With a large number of Venezuelans residing in Colombia without regular status, critics argue that the government should focus on regularization processes rather than implementing widespread deportations.
The president’s remarks have also ignited discussions on the terminology used to describe migrants. Colombian law typically refers to those without proper documentation as being in an “irregular” situation, differing from the term “illegal” often used in other contexts. This nuance has become a focal point in the ongoing debate over the legal and social implications of the president’s proposed measures.