Mayor of Medellín prohibits prostitution in tourist areas

The mayor of Medellín, Colombia, Federico Gutiérrez, has banned prostitution in the neighbourhoods of Provenza and El Poblado for six months in order to prevent the sexual exploitation of children. These neighbourhoods are known for their trendy bars and clubs, attracting many tourists as well as sex workers. Gutiérrez stated that criminal networks are bringing minors to these areas and forcing them into sex work, prompting the need to reclaim control and protect the community. While sex work is legal in Colombia for consenting adults, local governments have the authority to temporarily ban it in certain areas if it poses a threat to public order.

The decision to ban prostitution comes after an American man was found in a hotel room with two local girls aged 12 and 13, which received significant coverage in the local media. The man was briefly held in police custody before being released while officials investigated the case; he later left Colombia for Florida. Gutiérrez called for a swift investigation into the matter, emphasizing the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions in the city. The incident reflects the challenges and risks associated with the growing sex industry in Medellín, which has attracted tourists seeking its balmy weather, affordable prices, and festive atmosphere.

Sex work in Medellín has seen an increase as the city becomes more popular with tourists, leading to encounters with sex workers through various means such as dating apps. Some of these encounters have turned violent, prompting concerns about the safety of visitors. In response to this, the State Department issued a security alert warning about the risks of using dating apps in Medellín, following reports of Americans being killed in the city over a two-month period. Criminals were said to be luring visitors through dating apps to locations where they were drugged, kidnapped, or robbed, highlighting the dangers associated with engaging in such activities in the city.

The ban on prostitution in Provenza and El Poblado reflects efforts to address the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, particularly minors, in these popular neighbourhoods. Gutiérrez’s decision aims to restore order and protect the community from criminal networks that use these areas for illegal activities, including sex trafficking. By enforcing the ban, the mayor hopes to send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that steps will be taken to hold perpetrators accountable. The challenges posed by the sex industry in Medellín underscore the need for greater vigilance and measures to ensure the safety of residents and visitors alike.

As Medellín grapples with the complexities of its growing sex industry, authorities are working to address the underlying issues that contribute to exploitation and violence in the city. By taking steps to regulate and control prostitution in key areas, officials are sending a signal that they are committed to protecting the rights and well-being of vulnerable individuals, particularly children. The case of the American man found with underage girls serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise from unchecked sexual exploitation and the importance of addressing these issues through coordinated efforts between government agencies, law enforcement, and community members.