The rare female species was discovered in the Aburra Valley metropolitan area in Colombia. It is the first case of an albino jaguarundi reported in Colombia.

Rare female species albino jaguarundi cub rescued in Colombia

A national park in Colombia has freed several species into the wild. The animals were transported in cardboard boxes and plastic cages and were released back to the wild in a northern Colombian jungle.

National park in Colombia frees several species into the wild

A peace deal in Colombia has left the Amazon forest facing the impact. The Amazon was one of the strongholds of the rebels but as they retreated it ended up becoming a hub of illicit activities.

Peace pact in Colombia has boded ill for Amazon forest

It has been 36 years since a volcanic eruption in Colombia decimated a town and killed more than 25,000 people. The same volcano that caused all that devastation was seen spewing ash and gas just this weekend.

"Noticeable" activity has been observed at the Nevado del Ruiz volcano since Saturday, the Colombian Geological Service reported. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-do-you-see-inside-a-volcano-try-a-storm-of-cosmic-particles-428568">How do you see inside a volcano? Try a storm of cosmic particles.</a>

The geological service in a tweet said that "Emisión de ceniza observada hoy a las 6:21 a.m. por medio de las cámaras instaladas en el área del Volcán Nevado del Ruiz. El Nivel de Actividad continúa en: Nivel Amarillo de actividad o (III): cambios en el comportamiento de la actividad volcánica. #sgcvolcanes".

This can be translated to "Ash emission observed today at 6:21 am through the cameras installed in the Nevado del Ruiz Volcano area. The Activity Level continues at Yellow Activity Level o (III): changes in the behaviour of volcanic activity."

Watch the volcanic activity here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Emisión de ceniza observada hoy a las 6:21 a.m. por medio de las cámaras instaladas en el área del Volcán Nevado del Ruiz. El Nivel de Actividad continúa en: Nivel Amarillo de actividad o (III): cambios en el comportamiento de la actividad volcánica.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sgcvolcanes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sgcvolcanes</a> <a href="https://t.co/6ErOoiiPbD">pic.twitter.com/6ErOoiiPbD</a>
— Servicio Geológico (@sgcol) <a href="https://twitter.com/sgcol/status/1459493183721771009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Located in western Colombia, the Nevado del Ruiz is one of the many volcanoes that are found on the Ring of Fire; a ring of volcanoes and earthquakes that surrounds the Pacific basin.

Late in 1985, after decades of dormancy, Nevado del Ruiz began to rumble. When it erupted on November 13, 1985, the volcano emitted so much heat that it permanently melted the snow cover on the mountain.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-rivers-of-lava-drone-footage-shows-lava-flowing-from-spains-cumbre-vieja-volcano-426535">Watch | 'Rivers of lava': Drone footage shows lava flowing from Spain's Cumbre Vieja volcano</a>

As a result, Armero, a town of 50,000, was buried under a cascading wall of mud, killing half its residents.

The footage of 13-year-old Omayra Sanchez, trapped in the debris of her destroyed house with water and mud up to her neck, is etched in the minds of Colombians and people around the world. A victim of the 1985 eruption, she was trapped in mud for three days, eventually dying.

One of the deadliest volcanic eruptions of the 20th century, the eruption is considered the worst natural disaster in Colombian history.

Watch |&nbsp;Italy: Mount Etna spews ash and smoke, marks Europe's most active volcano

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italy-mount-etna-spews-ash-and-smoke-marks-europes-most-active-volcano-423917/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the geological service, Nevado del Ruiz has been in a state of instability for more than eleven years.&nbsp;

This latest period of instability, which has lasted for more than eleven years, has been characterised by variable fumarolic activity. The geological service has also posted a graphic showcasing the current ash emissions, which closely resemble those from the years 2014 and 2015.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Este último periodo de inestabilidad que lleva más de once años se ha caracterizado por actividad fumarolica variable. Se aprecia en estas animaciones emisiones de ceniza para los años 2014 y 2015, similares a las que se están presentando actualmente. <a href="https://t.co/uxRhlGg67y">pic.twitter.com/uxRhlGg67y</a>
— Servicio Geológico (@sgcol) <a href="https://twitter.com/sgcol/status/1459587668409475081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

It has been 36 years since a volcanic eruption in Colombia decimated a town and killed more than 25,000 people. The same volcano that caused all that devastation was seen spewing ash and gas just this weekend.

It has been 36 years since a volcanic eruption in Colombia decimated a town and killed more than 25,000 people. The same volcano that caused all that devastation was seen spewing ash and gas just this weekend. "Noticeable" activity has been observed at the Nevado del Ruiz volcano since Saturday, the Colombian Geological Service reported. Also read | How do you see inside a volcano? Try a storm of cosmic particles. The geological service in a tweet said that "Emisión de ceniza observada hoy a las 6:21 a.m. por medio de las cámaras instaladas en el área del Volcán Nevado del Ruiz. El Nivel de Actividad continúa en: Nivel Amarillo de actividad o (III): cambios en el comportamiento de la actividad volcánica. #sgcvolcanes". This can be translated to "Ash emission observed today at 6:21 am through the cameras installed in the Nevado del Ruiz Volcano area. The Activity Level continues at Yellow Activity Level o (III): changes in the behaviour of volcanic activity." Watch the volcanic activity here: Emisión de ceniza observada hoy a las 6:21 a.m. por medio de las cámaras instaladas en el área del Volcán Nevado del Ruiz. El Nivel de Actividad continúa en: Nivel Amarillo de actividad o (III): cambios en el comportamiento de la actividad volcánica.#sgcvolcanes pic.twitter.com/6ErOoiiPbD — Servicio Geológico (@sgcol) November 13, 2021 × Located in western Colombia, the Nevado del Ruiz is one of the many volcanoes that are found on the Ring of Fire; a ring of volcanoes and earthquakes that surrounds the Pacific basin. Late in 1985, after decades of dormancy, Nevado del Ruiz began to rumble. When it erupted on November 13, 1985, the volcano emitted so much heat that it permanently melted the snow cover on the mountain. Also read | Watch | 'Rivers of lava': Drone footage shows lava flowing from Spain's Cumbre Vieja volcano As a result, Armero, a town of 50,000, was buried under a cascading wall of mud, killing half its residents. The footage of 13-year-old Omayra Sanchez, trapped in the debris of her destroyed house with water and mud up to her neck, is etched in the minds of Colombians and people around the world. A victim of the 1985 eruption, she was trapped in mud for three days, eventually dying. One of the deadliest volcanic eruptions of the 20th century, the eruption is considered the worst natural disaster in Colombian history. Watch | Italy: Mount Etna spews ash and smoke, marks Europe's most active volcano According to the geological service, Nevado del Ruiz has been in a state of instability for more than eleven years. This latest period of instability, which has lasted for more than eleven years, has been characterised by variable fumarolic activity. The geological service has also posted a graphic showcasing the current ash emissions, which closely resemble those from the years 2014 and 2015. Este último periodo de inestabilidad que lleva más de once años se ha caracterizado por actividad fumarolica variable. Se aprecia en estas animaciones emisiones de ceniza para los años 2014 y 2015, similares a las que se están presentando actualmente. pic.twitter.com/uxRhlGg67y — Servicio Geológico (@sgcol) November 13, 2021 ×

Watch | Volcano that wiped out town in Colombia, killed 25,000, is active again

Colombia, the third-largest economy in Latin America, aims to reach more than US$1 billion in bilateral trade with the UAE by 2030, President Ivan Duque has said.

In an exclusive interview to Emirates News Agency (WAM), the president of Colombia, who is on his first official visit to the UAE, said he hopes to triple the trade figures with the middle eastern country within the next 24 months.

“Do I see a potential to achieve US$1 billion (by 2030)? Yes, and it could reach higher than that. But I think we must connect the markets, eliminate barriers and be able to bring investments from the UAE to Colombia,” he said.

“I really believe that the next challenge is to triple the trade (figures) between Colombia and the UAE over the course of the next 24 months and be able to have the biggest ever investment by the UAE in Colombia.

“I’m certain that green energy, hydrogen, non-conventional renewable energy sources and conventional energy like oil and gas will have a lot of interest from the UAE investors in Colombia.”

According to UAE’s Ministry of Economy, the non-oil bilateral trade between the two countries touched US$176 million in the first half of 2019.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/colombias-vice-president-marta-lucia-ramirez-calls-for-joint-vaccine-production-with-india-417812">Colombia's vice president Marta Lucía Ramírez calls for joint vaccine production with India</a>

The two countries established their diplomatic ties 45 years ago, and Colombia was one of the first countries to support the UAE’s bid to host Expo 2020 Dubai.

There are no direct flights between the two countries yet. However, the Colombian president revealed that he will discuss it with Emirati officials on Sunday.

“We have been having that conversation with the ambassador of the UAE to Colombia and our ambassador here. I will meet UAE authorities today (to discuss it further),” he said.

“One of the things that I would love to raise (in the meeting) is to eliminate logistical complexities and be able to connect directly between Colombia and the UAE.”

The two countries are working on signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on double taxation avoidance, President Duque said.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-authorises-export-of-dried-cannabis-flowers-400240">&nbsp;Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers</a>

When asked whether the UAE could be the second Middle Eastern country, after Israel, to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Colombia, he answered, “I think there is a great opportunity. We can do something strong, fast, impactful. We are working on the avoidance of double taxation and there is an investment agreement (with the UAE) that is being discussed in the Congress. So, why not an FTA? I think it will be a win-win situation.”

Duque, who was elected in 2018 as the President, believes that the UAE can be an “accelerator and an important partner” of his vision of turning Colombia into the “Silicon Valley of Latin America.”

“Yes, I see the UAE playing a role. Not only through the [sovereign] funds, but also when it comes to the supply of technology - Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, blockchain,” he said.

"We have been able to develop technologies that can be suitable for the UAE companies looking towards Latin America. The UAE can be a very important partner, supporting our country to move more startups in specialised technology; to become providers and be able to connect the UAE can be an accelerator of the vision of Colombia becoming the Silicon Valley of Latin America."

Colombia is an emerging destination for incubation of technology and IT companies. In 2015, the country was the third largest provider of IT services in Latin America with more than 5,400 companies and sales close to US$2.5 billion, Luis German Restrepo, the director for ProColombia Miami, had told Forbes.

Talking about the Colombian economy and tourism, President Duque said, “This year, our economy will grow above 8.5 percent, which will be the best growth [rate for Colombia] in this century.”

“4.5 million tourists visited Colombia in 2019. We want in 2022 to reach a higher level I’m motivated to see Colombia in a post-pandemic world where we will take advantage of our capabilities, including the possibility of having biotourism and ecotourism as an engine for our economic growth," he concluded.

Colombia, the third-largest economy in Latin America, aims to reach more than US$1 billion in bilateral trade with the UAE by 2030, President Ivan Duque has said.

Colombia, the third-largest economy in Latin America, aims to reach more than US$1 billion in bilateral trade with the UAE by 2030, President Ivan Duque has said. In an exclusive interview to Emirates News Agency (WAM), the president of Colombia, who is on his first official visit to the UAE, said he hopes to triple the trade figures with the middle eastern country within the next 24 months. “Do I see a potential to achieve US$1 billion (by 2030)? Yes, and it could reach higher than that. But I think we must connect the markets, eliminate barriers and be able to bring investments from the UAE to Colombia,” he said. “I really believe that the next challenge is to triple the trade (figures) between Colombia and the UAE over the course of the next 24 months and be able to have the biggest ever investment by the UAE in Colombia. “I’m certain that green energy, hydrogen, non-conventional renewable energy sources and conventional energy like oil and gas will have a lot of interest from the UAE investors in Colombia.” According to UAE’s Ministry of Economy, the non-oil bilateral trade between the two countries touched US$176 million in the first half of 2019. Also read | Colombia's vice president Marta Lucía Ramírez calls for joint vaccine production with India The two countries established their diplomatic ties 45 years ago, and Colombia was one of the first countries to support the UAE’s bid to host Expo 2020 Dubai. There are no direct flights between the two countries yet. However, the Colombian president revealed that he will discuss it with Emirati officials on Sunday. “We have been having that conversation with the ambassador of the UAE to Colombia and our ambassador here. I will meet UAE authorities today (to discuss it further),” he said. “One of the things that I would love to raise (in the meeting) is to eliminate logistical complexities and be able to connect directly between Colombia and the UAE.” The two countries are working on signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on double taxation avoidance, President Duque said. Also read | Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers When asked whether the UAE could be the second Middle Eastern country, after Israel, to sign a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Colombia, he answered, “I think there is a great opportunity. We can do something strong, fast, impactful. We are working on the avoidance of double taxation and there is an investment agreement (with the UAE) that is being discussed in the Congress. So, why not an FTA? I think it will be a win-win situation.” Duque, who was elected in 2018 as the President, believes that the UAE can be an “accelerator and an important partner” of his vision of turning Colombia into the “Silicon Valley of Latin America.” “Yes, I see the UAE playing a role. Not only through the [sovereign] funds, but also when it comes to the supply of technology - Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, blockchain,” he said. "We have been able to develop technologies that can be suitable for the UAE companies looking towards Latin America. The UAE can be a very important partner, supporting our country to move more startups in specialised technology; to become providers and be able to connect the UAE can be an accelerator of the vision of Colombia becoming the Silicon Valley of Latin America." Colombia is an emerging destination for incubation of technology and IT companies. In 2015, the country was the third largest provider of IT services in Latin America with more than 5,400 companies and sales close to US$2.5 billion, Luis German Restrepo, the director for ProColombia Miami, had told Forbes. Talking about the Colombian economy and tourism, President Duque said, “This year, our economy will grow above 8.5 percent, which will be the best growth [rate for Colombia] in this century.” “4.5 million tourists visited Colombia in 2019. We want in 2022 to reach a higher level I’m motivated to see Colombia in a post-pandemic world where we will take advantage of our capabilities, including the possibility of having biotourism and ecotourism as an engine for our economic growth," he concluded.

Trade, direct flights on agenda of Colombian President Duque’s first official visit to UAE

Colombia's largest narco-trafficking gang ‘Gulf Clan’ head Dairo Antonio Usuga has been captured near one of his main outposts in Necocli by security officials. &nbsp; &nbsp;

In the images released by the government, the 50-year-old drug lord, who is also called as Otoniel,&nbsp;can be seen in handcuffs and surrounded by soldiers. &nbsp;

In a message, Colombian president Ivan Duque said, "This is the hardest strike to drug trafficking in our country this century." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-the-dealmaker-finds-that-compromise-can-have-consequences-423379" hreflang="en">Biden the dealmaker finds that compromise can have consequences</a>

He added that the arrest was "only comparable to the fall of Pablo Escobar," the infamous Colombian narco-trafficking kingpin. &nbsp;

Otoniel, who was caught near Panama border, is one of the most feared men in Colombia. &nbsp;

The United States had also offered a $5 million bounty for any information, which could lead to his arrest. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-chief-welcomes-navalnys-award-of-top-eu-rights-prize-423372" hreflang="en">NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize</a>

Indicted in the United States in 2009, Otoniel faces extradition proceedings to the country. In US, he would appear in the Southern District of New York federal court. &nbsp;

According to the Colombian government, the group was financed mainly through drug trafficking, illegal mining and extortion. It is also being accused of being one of the main drivers of the worst spate of nationwide violence since the signing of a peace pact with FARC guerillas in 2016. &nbsp;

As per independent think tank ‘Indepaz’, the group is present in almost 300 municipalities in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Colombia's largest narco-trafficking gang ‘Gulf Clan’ head Dairo Antonio Usuga has been captured near one of his main outposts in Necocli by security officials. In the images released by the government, the 50-year-old drug lord, who is also called as Otoniel, can be seen in handcuffs and surrounded by soldiers.

Colombia's largest narco-trafficking gang ‘Gulf Clan’ head Dairo Antonio Usuga has been captured near one of his main outposts in Necocli by security officials. In the images released by the government, the 50-year-old drug lord, who is also called as Otoniel, can be seen in handcuffs and surrounded by soldiers. In a message, Colombian president Ivan Duque said, "This is the hardest strike to drug trafficking in our country this century." Also Read: Biden the dealmaker finds that compromise can have consequences He added that the arrest was "only comparable to the fall of Pablo Escobar," the infamous Colombian narco-trafficking kingpin. Otoniel, who was caught near Panama border, is one of the most feared men in Colombia. The United States had also offered a $5 million bounty for any information, which could lead to his arrest. Also Read: NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize Indicted in the United States in 2009, Otoniel faces extradition proceedings to the country. In US, he would appear in the Southern District of New York federal court. According to the Colombian government, the group was financed mainly through drug trafficking, illegal mining and extortion. It is also being accused of being one of the main drivers of the worst spate of nationwide violence since the signing of a peace pact with FARC guerillas in 2016. As per independent think tank ‘Indepaz’, the group is present in almost 300 municipalities in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia's most feared drug lord Dairo Antonio Usuga captured

A former Colombian military officer wanted by Haitian authorities over the assassination of President Jovenel Moise has been captured in Jamaica, Colombian authorities said on Friday.

Mario Palacios is accused of being one of 26 Colombian mercenaries who allegedly took part in the July 7 murder of Moise at his home in Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince, in which his wife Martine was also shot and wounded.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-gang-leader-threatens-to-kill-kidnapped-american-missionaries-422879">Haiti gang leader threatens to kill kidnapped American missionaries</a>

"We have already been notified about the capture of Mr Palacios. What is happening now&nbsp;is the extradition process to Haiti," said Colombia's police chief Jorge Vargas in a video.

He said he was informed of the arrest by the Interpol office in Kingston, Jamaica.

No details were given about the arrest, nor how Palacios would have managed to reach the neighboring island of Jamaica from Haiti.

Palacios had been the subject of an Interpol red notice.

Three Colombians were killed by Haitian armed forces responding to the attack and 18 more were detained, alongside two US citizens of Haitian descent.

Vargas previously said the captured Colombians claimed that the initial plan was to arrest Moise and hand him over to the US Drug Enforcement Agency.

The mercenaries were contracted by Miami-based Venezuelan security firm CTU.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-gang-demands-17-million-ransom-for-kidnapped-missionaries-and-children-422157">Haiti gang demands $17 million ransom for kidnapped missionaries and children</a>

Colombia's government has complained about the poor treatment of its citizens by Haitian authorities.

The assassination deepened an already dramatic crisis in Haiti, which is suffering from a lack of security, soaring gang violence and a spate of kidnappings.

The capital has also been paralyzed by fuel shortages caused by gangs controlling oil access, and demonstrations by those angry that gasoline is only available on the black market.

A former Colombian military officer wanted by Haitian authorities over the assassination of President Jovenel Moise has been captured in Jamaica, Colombian authorities said on Friday.

A former Colombian military officer wanted by Haitian authorities over the assassination of President Jovenel Moise has been captured in Jamaica, Colombian authorities said on Friday. Mario Palacios is accused of being one of 26 Colombian mercenaries who allegedly took part in the July 7 murder of Moise at his home in Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince, in which his wife Martine was also shot and wounded. Also Read | Haiti gang leader threatens to kill kidnapped American missionaries "We have already been notified about the capture of Mr Palacios. What is happening now is the extradition process to Haiti," said Colombia's police chief Jorge Vargas in a video. He said he was informed of the arrest by the Interpol office in Kingston, Jamaica. No details were given about the arrest, nor how Palacios would have managed to reach the neighboring island of Jamaica from Haiti. Palacios had been the subject of an Interpol red notice. Three Colombians were killed by Haitian armed forces responding to the attack and 18 more were detained, alongside two US citizens of Haitian descent. Vargas previously said the captured Colombians claimed that the initial plan was to arrest Moise and hand him over to the US Drug Enforcement Agency. The mercenaries were contracted by Miami-based Venezuelan security firm CTU. Also Read | Haiti gang demands $17 million ransom for kidnapped missionaries and children Colombia's government has complained about the poor treatment of its citizens by Haitian authorities. The assassination deepened an already dramatic crisis in Haiti, which is suffering from a lack of security, soaring gang violence and a spate of kidnappings. The capital has also been paralyzed by fuel shortages caused by gangs controlling oil access, and demonstrations by those angry that gasoline is only available on the black market.

Colombian linked to Haiti president's murder captured in Jamaica

Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar previously possessed over 80 hippos who are the first non-human creatures to be legally classified as persons. The hippos are descended from four that Escobar illegally brought.

Drug lord Pablo Escobar's hippos now legally classified as persons in US

Colombia said on Tuesday that it was aware of so-called 'Havana Syndrome' cases at US Embassy in country's capital Bogota but was leaving the investigation to Washington.

"Of course we have knowledge of this situation but I want to leave it to the US authorities, who are doing their own investigation, because it is about their own personnel," said Colombian President Ivan Duque to reporters in New York.

At least five US families associated with the embassy in Colombia have come down with symptoms associated with the mysterious affliction, which include headaches, nausea and possible brain damage, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-signs-law-to-support-victims-of-havana-syndrome-419398">Biden signs law to support victims of 'Havana Syndrome'</a> 
&nbsp; 
The cases in Colombia are latest in the series of instances of 'Havana syndrome' experienced by US diplomats in many countries of the world. The cases were seen first in Cuba then in China, Germany, Australia, Taiwan and the US capital.

US President Joe Biden on Friday signed a law providing financial support for victims of the mysterious illness.

The Havana Act provides financial compensation for members of the State Department and CIA who suffer brain injury from what officials suspect may be directed microwave attacks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/havana-syndrome-strikes-again-what-is-it-exactly-408221">Havana Syndrome strikes again? What is it exactly?</a>

The cause of the illnesses has not been fully diagnosed and the identity of the attacker, if there is one, has not been revealed.

The Cuban government investigated the matter and has repeatedly rejected US statements on the matter as disinformation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/havana-syndrome-cases-may-be-linked-to-crickets-claims-report-418143">Havana syndrome cases may be linked to crickets, claims report</a>

The US Embassy in Bogota, one of the largest in the world, includes a strong contingent of agents working in both intelligence and counter-narcotics operations, in addition to career diplomats and personnel.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit the country on October 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

Colombia said on Tuesday that it was aware of so-called 'Havana Syndrome' cases at US Embassy in country's capital Bogota but was leaving the investigation to Washington.

Colombia said on Tuesday that it was aware of so-called 'Havana Syndrome' cases at US Embassy in country's capital Bogota but was leaving the investigation to Washington. "Of course we have knowledge of this situation but I want to leave it to the US authorities, who are doing their own investigation, because it is about their own personnel," said Colombian President Ivan Duque to reporters in New York. At least five US families associated with the embassy in Colombia have come down with symptoms associated with the mysterious affliction, which include headaches, nausea and possible brain damage, the Wall Street Journal reported. Also Read | Biden signs law to support victims of 'Havana Syndrome' The cases in Colombia are latest in the series of instances of 'Havana syndrome' experienced by US diplomats in many countries of the world. The cases were seen first in Cuba then in China, Germany, Australia, Taiwan and the US capital. US President Joe Biden on Friday signed a law providing financial support for victims of the mysterious illness. The Havana Act provides financial compensation for members of the State Department and CIA who suffer brain injury from what officials suspect may be directed microwave attacks. Also Read | Havana Syndrome strikes again? What is it exactly? The cause of the illnesses has not been fully diagnosed and the identity of the attacker, if there is one, has not been revealed. The Cuban government investigated the matter and has repeatedly rejected US statements on the matter as disinformation. Also Read | Havana syndrome cases may be linked to crickets, claims report The US Embassy in Bogota, one of the largest in the world, includes a strong contingent of agents working in both intelligence and counter-narcotics operations, in addition to career diplomats and personnel. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit the country on October 20. (With inputs from agencies)

Havana Syndrome: Colombia to leave investigation to US

While countries are already struggling to battle with the delta variant, another variant is ready to attack and cause more serious concerns.&nbsp;

The European Medicines Agency on Thursday said that a coronavirus variant known as "Mu" could be cause for concern, although there is no data yet to show it will overtake the dominant Delta strain.

Mu, which was first identified in Colombia in January and is known scientifically as B.1.621, was classified earlier this month as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization. The EMA, while mainly focused on the highly transmissible Delta variant, is "also looking into other variants that might be spreading, like the Lambda one (identified in Peru) and more recently the Mu one," its vaccines strategy chief Marco Cavaleri told a press briefing.

"The Mu one being potentially more of concern because of the potential increased immune escape that it may show."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-extends-covid-curbs-in-tokyo-till-september-end-411864">Also read |&nbsp;Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end</a>

"However, I have to say that we don't have yet data that would show that the Mu variant is spreading that much, and whether it will have any chance to overtake the Delta variant as a dominant strain."

The WHO currently identifies four Covid-19 variants of concern, including Alpha, which is present in 193 countries, and Delta, present in 170 countries.

Five variants, including Mu, are to be monitored.

After being detected in Colombia, Mu has since been reported in other South American countries and in Europe.

The WHO has said that its global prevalence has declined to below 0.1 per cent among sequenced cases. In Colombia, however, it is at 39 per cent.

As of Thursday, a total of 5,599 sequences, including both B.1.621 and B.1.621.1, had been submitted by 47 countries to GISAID, the global research database on viruses.

The bulk of the submissions were from the United States and Colombia, followed by Spain, Mexico, Chile, Ecuador, and Canada.

The variant has not been detected in India so far. It is also not present in Africa, Australia, and most of Asia.&nbsp;

Globally, the cumulative prevalence of Mu is less than 0.5 per cent, according to outbreak.info.

As per a paper published in ‘Infection, Genetics and Evolution,' the Mu variant has several substitutions affecting the spike protein and amino acid changes.

Mutations including, E484K, N501Y, P681H, D614G are seen in the Mu variant have been reported in other VOIs and VOCs.&nbsp; 
These mutations are known to help the virus escape the body’s immune defences. These also help in increasing transmissibility.

While countries are already struggling to battle with the delta variant, another variant is ready to attack and cause more serious concerns. The European Medicines Agency on Thursday said that a coronavirus variant known as "Mu" could be cause for concern, although there is no data yet to show it will overtake the dominant Delta strain.

While countries are already struggling to battle with the delta variant, another variant is ready to attack and cause more serious concerns. The European Medicines Agency on Thursday said that a coronavirus variant known as "Mu" could be cause for concern, although there is no data yet to show it will overtake the dominant Delta strain. Mu, which was first identified in Colombia in January and is known scientifically as B.1.621, was classified earlier this month as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization. The EMA, while mainly focused on the highly transmissible Delta variant, is "also looking into other variants that might be spreading, like the Lambda one (identified in Peru) and more recently the Mu one," its vaccines strategy chief Marco Cavaleri told a press briefing. "The Mu one being potentially more of concern because of the potential increased immune escape that it may show." Also read | Japan extends Covid curbs in Tokyo till September end "However, I have to say that we don't have yet data that would show that the Mu variant is spreading that much, and whether it will have any chance to overtake the Delta variant as a dominant strain." The WHO currently identifies four Covid-19 variants of concern, including Alpha, which is present in 193 countries, and Delta, present in 170 countries. Five variants, including Mu, are to be monitored. After being detected in Colombia, Mu has since been reported in other South American countries and in Europe. The WHO has said that its global prevalence has declined to below 0.1 per cent among sequenced cases. In Colombia, however, it is at 39 per cent. As of Thursday, a total of 5,599 sequences, including both B.1.621 and B.1.621.1, had been submitted by 47 countries to GISAID, the global research database on viruses. The bulk of the submissions were from the United States and Colombia, followed by Spain, Mexico, Chile, Ecuador, and Canada. The variant has not been detected in India so far. It is also not present in Africa, Australia, and most of Asia. Globally, the cumulative prevalence of Mu is less than 0.5 per cent, according to outbreak.info. As per a paper published in ‘Infection, Genetics and Evolution,' the Mu variant has several substitutions affecting the spike protein and amino acid changes. Mutations including, E484K, N501Y, P681H, D614G are seen in the Mu variant have been reported in other VOIs and VOCs. These mutations are known to help the virus escape the body’s immune defences. These also help in increasing transmissibility.

Mu variant of coronavirus from Colombia as a new reason of concern, here is all you need to know

Panama&nbsp;and&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;agreed Friday to&nbsp;facilitate&nbsp;the controlled transit of undocumented migrants seeking to reach the United States, in an attempt to slow the surge of people and protect them from organized crime.

The two countries will establish a series of quotas next week of migrants that each nation can receive.

So far this year, 49,000 migrants have crossed the border between&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Panama, as many as in the last four years combined, fleeing the crisis caused by the pandemic, poverty and violence in their home countries.

The agreement followed a meeting in the town of Meteti, in southern&nbsp;Panama, attended by Colombian vice president and foreign minister Marta Lucia Ramirez and Panamanian foreign minister Erika Mouynes, in addition to other ministers and senior security officials.

Another Panamanian delegation will travel to&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;Monday "to determine a number, a quota of migrants" who can "be received in a safe and orderly manner by the Panamanian side," Mouynes said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-department-announces-five-additions-to-global-terrorist-list-403595">Also read |&nbsp;US State Department announces five additions to global terrorist list</a>

"We are going to regularize a contingent or a daily amount of people who preferably move through a single place, who have a single place of arrival in&nbsp;Panama," Ramirez added.

Both countries will also examine possible transportation alternatives to prevent migrants from having to cross a deadly jungle corridor known as the Darien Gap.

Colombia&nbsp;and&nbsp;Panama&nbsp;also agreed to organize police and judicial cooperation to prevent criminal networks from taking advantage of undocumented migrants to develop their operations.

At an upcoming regional meeting that will include the United States, the two nations will seek to join a regional quota agreement that would allow the controlled&nbsp;passage&nbsp;of migrants.

The surge in migrants is threatening to overwhelm the care centers Panamanian authorities have set up to care for them after they pass through the Darien Gap.

For several weeks, thousands of migrants, including minors and pregnant women, have been stranded in the Colombian port town of Necocli as they wait for boats to cross into neighboring&nbsp;Panama.

The Gulf of Uraba, on&nbsp;Colombia's northern coast, is one of the main transit points for refugees from nearby Latin American nations as well as Africa and Asia.

Panama and Colombia agreed Friday to facilitate the controlled transit of undocumented migrants seeking to reach the United States, in an attempt to slow the surge of people and protect them from organized crime.

Panama and Colombia agreed Friday to facilitate the controlled transit of undocumented migrants seeking to reach the United States, in an attempt to slow the surge of people and protect them from organized crime. The two countries will establish a series of quotas next week of migrants that each nation can receive. So far this year, 49,000 migrants have crossed the border between Colombia and Panama, as many as in the last four years combined, fleeing the crisis caused by the pandemic, poverty and violence in their home countries. The agreement followed a meeting in the town of Meteti, in southern Panama, attended by Colombian vice president and foreign minister Marta Lucia Ramirez and Panamanian foreign minister Erika Mouynes, in addition to other ministers and senior security officials. Another Panamanian delegation will travel to Colombia Monday "to determine a number, a quota of migrants" who can "be received in a safe and orderly manner by the Panamanian side," Mouynes said. Also read | US State Department announces five additions to global terrorist list "We are going to regularize a contingent or a daily amount of people who preferably move through a single place, who have a single place of arrival in Panama," Ramirez added. Both countries will also examine possible transportation alternatives to prevent migrants from having to cross a deadly jungle corridor known as the Darien Gap. Colombia and Panama also agreed to organize police and judicial cooperation to prevent criminal networks from taking advantage of undocumented migrants to develop their operations. At an upcoming regional meeting that will include the United States, the two nations will seek to join a regional quota agreement that would allow the controlled passage of migrants. The surge in migrants is threatening to overwhelm the care centers Panamanian authorities have set up to care for them after they pass through the Darien Gap. For several weeks, thousands of migrants, including minors and pregnant women, have been stranded in the Colombian port town of Necocli as they wait for boats to cross into neighboring Panama. The Gulf of Uraba, on Colombia's northern coast, is one of the main transit points for refugees from nearby Latin American nations as well as Africa and Asia.

Panama, Colombia to facilitate safer migrant passage to US

Colombian immigration authorities said Tuesday they had expelled a&nbsp;German&nbsp;woman&nbsp;who&nbsp;took&nbsp;part&nbsp;in demonstrations against the government of President Ivan Duque.&nbsp;

Rebecca Sproesser "was carrying out activities that had nothing to do with her status as a tourist, and which could affect the civil order and peace," said the immigration authorities in a statement justifying "the decision to expel her."&nbsp;

Sproesser regularly uploaded photos and video of demonstrations to her social media networks, in which she met with members on what she called the "front line" of&nbsp;protests&nbsp;in the southwestern city of Cali.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-authorises-export-of-dried-cannabis-flowers-400240">Also read |&nbsp;Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers</a>

On Friday, she said on Facebook she had been the victim of an attack in the city, which has been the epicenter of anti-government&nbsp;protests&nbsp;that left more than 60 dead in three months.

Sproesser said the assailant "did not stop shooting until his gun ran out of bullets" and said a friend&nbsp;who&nbsp;protected her suffered 13 bullet wounds, "three of them in the head and several in the chest," while she herself suffered "grazes from the projectiles."&nbsp;

No officials have so far confirmed the attack, but the&nbsp;German&nbsp;ambassador, Peter Ptassek, said on Twitter he was following the news "with concern."

The government sparked popular discontent on April 28 over its proposal to raise taxes in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the project was shelved,&nbsp;protests&nbsp;continued and the crackdown on protesters fueled further unrest.

Colombian immigration authorities said Tuesday they had expelled a German woman who took part in demonstrations against the government of President Ivan Duque. Rebecca Sproesser "was carrying out activities that had nothing to do with her status as a tourist, and which could affect the civil order and peace," said the immigration authorities in a statement justifying "the decision to expel her.

Colombian immigration authorities said Tuesday they had expelled a German woman who took part in demonstrations against the government of President Ivan Duque. Rebecca Sproesser "was carrying out activities that had nothing to do with her status as a tourist, and which could affect the civil order and peace," said the immigration authorities in a statement justifying "the decision to expel her." Sproesser regularly uploaded photos and video of demonstrations to her social media networks, in which she met with members on what she called the "front line" of protests in the southwestern city of Cali. Also read | Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers On Friday, she said on Facebook she had been the victim of an attack in the city, which has been the epicenter of anti-government protests that left more than 60 dead in three months. Sproesser said the assailant "did not stop shooting until his gun ran out of bullets" and said a friend who protected her suffered 13 bullet wounds, "three of them in the head and several in the chest," while she herself suffered "grazes from the projectiles." No officials have so far confirmed the attack, but the German ambassador, Peter Ptassek, said on Twitter he was following the news "with concern." The government sparked popular discontent on April 28 over its proposal to raise taxes in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the project was shelved, protests continued and the crackdown on protesters fueled further unrest.

Colombia expels German who took part in anti-govt protests

Colombia gave the green light Friday to export dried cannabis flowers for use in medical products in addition to allowing manufacturers to produce goods such as textiles or food containing the plant.

In a bold embrace of a booming global market, President Ivan Duque signed a decree ending "the ban on the export of dried flower" in an event organised at Clever Leaves, one of the 18 multinationals that grows medicinal cannabis in Colombia.&nbsp;

Colombia "is coming in as a major player in the international market" for cannabis, Duque said.

Colombia, the world's top producer of cocaine and which has major cannabis production, legalised the production of medical marijuana in 2016.&nbsp;

Until now, however, it was only allowed to export extracts of the plant, not its flowers.

Authorities had feared that exportation of the flowers would allow them to be diverted to the illegal side of the trade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-arrests-10-over-attacks-on-duques-helicopter-military-base-399923">Also read |&nbsp;Colombia arrests 10 over attacks on Duque's helicopter, military base</a>

In a letter sent to Duque on July 14, the cannabis cultivation company Canamonte argued that a rule against exportation of the flowers prevented growers from "accessing the largest and most profitable market segment of the medical cannabis industry."&nbsp;

Flowers, which concentrate the plant's medicinal and psychoactive compounds, "may represent 53 percent of this market worldwide," according to Duque.&nbsp;

The new authorisation also allows for the manufacture of "non-psychoactive derivatives" from the plant.&nbsp;

"We are no longer only in pharmaceutical use. We are opening the space to do much more in cosmetics... food and beverages" and even textiles, the president said.&nbsp;

Fabian Currea, Canamonte's director of cultivation, told AFP that ending the ban on exporting flowers "gives us the chance to explore new markets" and take advantage of the plant's low production costs in Colombia.&nbsp;

The rule also "helps control the informal market for fraudulent products" based on marijuana that has had a recent boom in Colombia, Currea said.&nbsp;

The government estimates that by 2024 the medical cannabis business could become a $64 billion industry.&nbsp;

Other countries in the region such as Uruguay, Ecuador and Peru have also legalized the production of marijuana for medicinal purposes.&nbsp;

Colombia gave the green light Friday to export dried cannabis flowers for use in medical products in addition to allowing manufacturers to produce goods such as textiles or food containing the plant.

Colombia gave the green light Friday to export dried cannabis flowers for use in medical products in addition to allowing manufacturers to produce goods such as textiles or food containing the plant. In a bold embrace of a booming global market, President Ivan Duque signed a decree ending "the ban on the export of dried flower" in an event organised at Clever Leaves, one of the 18 multinationals that grows medicinal cannabis in Colombia. Colombia "is coming in as a major player in the international market" for cannabis, Duque said. Colombia, the world's top producer of cocaine and which has major cannabis production, legalised the production of medical marijuana in 2016. Until now, however, it was only allowed to export extracts of the plant, not its flowers. Authorities had feared that exportation of the flowers would allow them to be diverted to the illegal side of the trade. Also read | Colombia arrests 10 over attacks on Duque's helicopter, military base In a letter sent to Duque on July 14, the cannabis cultivation company Canamonte argued that a rule against exportation of the flowers prevented growers from "accessing the largest and most profitable market segment of the medical cannabis industry." Flowers, which concentrate the plant's medicinal and psychoactive compounds, "may represent 53 percent of this market worldwide," according to Duque. The new authorisation also allows for the manufacture of "non-psychoactive derivatives" from the plant. "We are no longer only in pharmaceutical use. We are opening the space to do much more in cosmetics... food and beverages" and even textiles, the president said. Fabian Currea, Canamonte's director of cultivation, told AFP that ending the ban on exporting flowers "gives us the chance to explore new markets" and take advantage of the plant's low production costs in Colombia. The rule also "helps control the informal market for fraudulent products" based on marijuana that has had a recent boom in Colombia, Currea said. The government estimates that by 2024 the medical cannabis business could become a $64 billion industry. Other countries in the region such as Uruguay, Ecuador and Peru have also legalized the production of marijuana for medicinal purposes.

Colombia authorises export of dried cannabis flowers

Colombia has arrested 10 people accused of involvement in attacks on a helicopter carrying President Ivan Duque and a military base last month that officials said on Thursday were planned by former FARC rebel leaders based in Venezuela. 
 
The car bombing at the base in the northeastern city of Cucuta, home to the army's 30th Brigade, wounded 44 people, including two US&nbsp;military advisers. Later in June, a helicopter approaching the city with Duque and other officials aboard was strafed by bullets. 
 
The 10 people captured in Norte de Santander province are former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebels who reject a 2016 peace deal, Attorney General Francisco Barbosa said in a news conference broadcast via social media, and belong to the dissidents' 33rd front. 
 
Three of them took part in the planning and execution of both attacks and have been detained and charged, while another is a retired army captain, Barbosa said. 
 
Orders to carry out the attacks came from former FARC leaders who are operating from Venezuela, Defense Minister Diego Molano said during the news conference. 
 
Molano said the attacks demonstrated that the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro sheltered FARC dissidents, referring to them as "terrorists." 
 
"It's clear that this attack against the president, against the 30th Brigade, was planned from Venezuela," Molano said. 
 
Colombia`s government has long accused Maduro of turning a blind eye to the presence of Colombian rebels on his country`s territory. Maduro, in turn, has said Venezuela is a victim of criminals from Colombia. 
 
Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza responded on Twitter, accusing Molano of pointing at Venezuela in an effort to distract from Colombia`s internal problems. 
 
"Once again they use Venezuela to try to hide the tragedy of their country," he said, adding that Colombia was riddled with violence and armed groups, with an economy reliant on drug trafficking.

Colombia has arrested 10 people accused of involvement in attacks on a helicopter carrying President Ivan Duque and a military base last month that officials said on Thursday were planned by former FARC rebel leaders based in Venezuela.

Colombia has arrested 10 people accused of involvement in attacks on a helicopter carrying President Ivan Duque and a military base last month that officials said on Thursday were planned by former FARC rebel leaders based in Venezuela. The car bombing at the base in the northeastern city of Cucuta, home to the army's 30th Brigade, wounded 44 people, including two US military advisers. Later in June, a helicopter approaching the city with Duque and other officials aboard was strafed by bullets. The 10 people captured in Norte de Santander province are former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebels who reject a 2016 peace deal, Attorney General Francisco Barbosa said in a news conference broadcast via social media, and belong to the dissidents' 33rd front. Three of them took part in the planning and execution of both attacks and have been detained and charged, while another is a retired army captain, Barbosa said. Orders to carry out the attacks came from former FARC leaders who are operating from Venezuela, Defense Minister Diego Molano said during the news conference. Molano said the attacks demonstrated that the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro sheltered FARC dissidents, referring to them as "terrorists." "It's clear that this attack against the president, against the 30th Brigade, was planned from Venezuela," Molano said. Colombia`s government has long accused Maduro of turning a blind eye to the presence of Colombian rebels on his country`s territory. Maduro, in turn, has said Venezuela is a victim of criminals from Colombia. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza responded on Twitter, accusing Molano of pointing at Venezuela in an effort to distract from Colombia`s internal problems. "Once again they use Venezuela to try to hide the tragedy of their country," he said, adding that Colombia was riddled with violence and armed groups, with an economy reliant on drug trafficking.

Colombia arrests 10 over attacks on Duque's helicopter, military base

Colombian police said Wednesday they had arrested 70 people following fresh anti-government protests that mobilised thousands countrywide the previous day and left dozens injured.

As Colombians returned to the streets after a weeks-long hiatus, clashes with riot police left dozens of civilians and agents wounded in the cities of Bogota, Medellin and Cali, according to the authorities.&nbsp;

The government has described the protests as largely peaceful.

"In the last few hours the national police captured 70 people, 69 of them caught in the act, for crimes committed in several cities on July 20, and one more on a warrant for homicide," the institution said in a statement.

Charges include blocking public roads, damage to property, throwing dangerous objects or substances, and firearm possession.&nbsp;

The government claims armed groups had infiltrating the protests.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/colombia-is-home-to-20-of-all-butterfly-species-in-the-world-study-finds-393385">Also read |&nbsp;Colombia is home to 20% of all butterfly species in the world, study finds</a>

Colombia's human rights ombudsman reported 50 people were injured in Tuesday's demonstrations -- 24 civilians and 26 agents.

The country was rocked by weeks of protests that broke out late April in opposition to a proposed tax hike that morphed into a mass movement against the right-wing administration of President Ivan Duque.

The demonstrators demanded an end to police repression and more supportive public policies to alleviate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 40 percent of the country's 50 million inhabitants now living in poverty.

The international community has condemned a security response that left more than 60 people dead.

Police reform

A major group representing protesters -- the so-called National Strike Committee -- said on June 16 it would suspend the demonstrations, even though smaller groups continued and roadblocks remained.&nbsp;

The committee called fresh protests for Tuesday, Colombia's independence day, as the government put a new tax proposal to parliament.

On Wednesday, the government presented to lawmakers a bill to reform the police, who are accused of abuses against civilian protesters.

It proposes better training for officers and sanctions for those who do not identify themselves when carrying out arrests, or who refuse to be filmed while carrying out their duties.

But it does not suggest removing the police from the control of the defense ministry, as demanded by protesters.

"The national police must be part of the ministry of defense because of the conditions of threat and violence that still exist in Colombia," police chief Diego Molano told AFP.

The institution "has functions in the fight against drug trafficking, in citizen security... in the fight against smuggling that require coordination with the military forces."

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has hit out at Colombia's "disproportionate" and "lethal" response to the protests, and has also recommended a police separation from the military.

Colombian police said Wednesday they had arrested 70 people following fresh anti-government protests that mobilised thousands countrywide the previous day and left dozens injured.

Colombian police said Wednesday they had arrested 70 people following fresh anti-government protests that mobilised thousands countrywide the previous day and left dozens injured. As Colombians returned to the streets after a weeks-long hiatus, clashes with riot police left dozens of civilians and agents wounded in the cities of Bogota, Medellin and Cali, according to the authorities. The government has described the protests as largely peaceful. "In the last few hours the national police captured 70 people, 69 of them caught in the act, for crimes committed in several cities on July 20, and one more on a warrant for homicide," the institution said in a statement. Charges include blocking public roads, damage to property, throwing dangerous objects or substances, and firearm possession. The government claims armed groups had infiltrating the protests. Also read | Colombia is home to 20% of all butterfly species in the world, study finds Colombia's human rights ombudsman reported 50 people were injured in Tuesday's demonstrations -- 24 civilians and 26 agents. The country was rocked by weeks of protests that broke out late April in opposition to a proposed tax hike that morphed into a mass movement against the right-wing administration of President Ivan Duque. The demonstrators demanded an end to police repression and more supportive public policies to alleviate the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 40 percent of the country's 50 million inhabitants now living in poverty. The international community has condemned a security response that left more than 60 people dead. Police reform A major group representing protesters -- the so-called National Strike Committee -- said on June 16 it would suspend the demonstrations, even though smaller groups continued and roadblocks remained. The committee called fresh protests for Tuesday, Colombia's independence day, as the government put a new tax proposal to parliament. On Wednesday, the government presented to lawmakers a bill to reform the police, who are accused of abuses against civilian protesters. It proposes better training for officers and sanctions for those who do not identify themselves when carrying out arrests, or who refuse to be filmed while carrying out their duties. But it does not suggest removing the police from the control of the defense ministry, as demanded by protesters. "The national police must be part of the ministry of defense because of the conditions of threat and violence that still exist in Colombia," police chief Diego Molano told AFP. The institution "has functions in the fight against drug trafficking, in citizen security... in the fight against smuggling that require coordination with the military forces." The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights has hit out at Colombia's "disproportionate" and "lethal" response to the protests, and has also recommended a police separation from the military.

Dozens arrested in fresh Colombia protests: Police

Children in rural Colombia are being taught by the non-profit organization Halo Trust how to identify anti-personnel mines near their communities. During the country's civil war, landmines were placed by armed groups throughout conflict zones.

Colombian children learn to identify landmines buried during their country's long civil war

Police in Costa Rica on Sunday seized 4.3 tonnes of cocaine. The drug had originated in Colombia. The authorities in Costa Rica said that the drug bust was the Central American nation's second-largest this year.

Major drug seizures have raised fears in recent years that Costa Rica is becoming a major transit country for Colombian drugs that then head towards Europe. This has got the officials in one of Central America's most stable nations worried.

The cocaine was transported in a container loaded with ceramic floor tiling. It was aboard a commercial ship that arrived at Costa Rican port of Moin from Colombian port of Turbo.

"We're very close to 40 tonnes of marijuana and cocaine seizures in the country (so far in 2021). We hope to surpass last year's numbers," Costa Rica's Security Minister Michael Soto said in a statement.

Costa Rican authorities seized nearly 57 tonnes of cocaine in 2020, up 56% from a year earlier, according to the security ministry. They seized 14.5 tonnes of marijuana last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police in Costa Rica on Sunday seized 4.3 tonnes of cocaine. The drug had originated in Colombia. The authorities in Costa Rica said that the drug bust was the Central American nation's second-largest this year.

Police in Costa Rica on Sunday seized 4.3 tonnes of cocaine. The drug had originated in Colombia. The authorities in Costa Rica said that the drug bust was the Central American nation's second-largest this year. Major drug seizures have raised fears in recent years that Costa Rica is becoming a major transit country for Colombian drugs that then head towards Europe. This has got the officials in one of Central America's most stable nations worried. The cocaine was transported in a container loaded with ceramic floor tiling. It was aboard a commercial ship that arrived at Costa Rican port of Moin from Colombian port of Turbo. "We're very close to 40 tonnes of marijuana and cocaine seizures in the country (so far in 2021). We hope to surpass last year's numbers," Costa Rica's Security Minister Michael Soto said in a statement. Costa Rican authorities seized nearly 57 tonnes of cocaine in 2020, up 56% from a year earlier, according to the security ministry. They seized 14.5 tonnes of marijuana last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Costa Rican police seize 4 tonnes of Colombian cocaine

Authorities in&nbsp;Colombia, working alongside counterparts in Panama and the United States, have seized 5.4 tonnes of cocaine worth $185 million, the Andean country's navy said on Wednesday (July 14).

The drugs were found after a speedboat fled back into&nbsp;Colombian waters after being detected by Panamanian authorities and was pursued by members of&nbsp;Colombia's coast guard, the navy said in a statement.

Following a detailed inspection of the area, members of the coast guard found the suspicious vessel with 81 sacks onboard and 147 other sacks hidden in the surrounding vegetation, which together contained the cocaine.

The drugs belonged to the Clan del Golfo criminal gang, the authorities said. The group is led by Dairo Antonio Usuga, known as "Otoniel,"&nbsp;Colombia's most-wanted drug trafficking suspect.

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Despite decades of fighting drug trafficking,&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;remains one of the world's top producers of cocaine and faces constant pressure from the United States to reduce crops and production of the drug that has long financed&nbsp;Colombia's internal armed conflict.

Colombia's security forces destroyed some 130,000 hectares (321,000 acres) of coca in 2020 and confiscated around 505 tonnes of cocaine.

The Clan del Golfo, or Gulf Clan, is considered&nbsp;Colombia's largest criminal gang made up of former far-right paramilitaries. It closed in 2016 with some 1,600 members, a high-ranking military official told Reuters in January.

Earlier this week,&nbsp;Colombia's Defense Ministry reported that five members of Clan del Golfo were killed in the country's Norte de Santander province, including a regional leader, while another five were captured during a military operation.

Authorities in Colombia, working alongside counterparts in Panama and the United States, have seized 5.4 tonnes of cocaine worth $185 million, the Andean country's navy said on Wednesday (July 14).

Authorities in Colombia, working alongside counterparts in Panama and the United States, have seized 5.4 tonnes of cocaine worth $185 million, the Andean country's navy said on Wednesday (July 14). The drugs were found after a speedboat fled back into Colombian waters after being detected by Panamanian authorities and was pursued by members of Colombia's coast guard, the navy said in a statement. Following a detailed inspection of the area, members of the coast guard found the suspicious vessel with 81 sacks onboard and 147 other sacks hidden in the surrounding vegetation, which together contained the cocaine. The drugs belonged to the Clan del Golfo criminal gang, the authorities said. The group is led by Dairo Antonio Usuga, known as "Otoniel," Colombia's most-wanted drug trafficking suspect. Also read | Indian-origin man arrested in Canada for smuggling 112 kg cocaine Despite decades of fighting drug trafficking, Colombia remains one of the world's top producers of cocaine and faces constant pressure from the United States to reduce crops and production of the drug that has long financed Colombia's internal armed conflict. Colombia's security forces destroyed some 130,000 hectares (321,000 acres) of coca in 2020 and confiscated around 505 tonnes of cocaine. The Clan del Golfo, or Gulf Clan, is considered Colombia's largest criminal gang made up of former far-right paramilitaries. It closed in 2016 with some 1,600 members, a high-ranking military official told Reuters in January. Earlier this week, Colombia's Defense Ministry reported that five members of Clan del Golfo were killed in the country's Norte de Santander province, including a regional leader, while another five were captured during a military operation.

Colombia seizes 5.4 tonnes of cocaine worth $185 million

Emiliano Martinez was the hero for Argentina as he saved three times in a shootout to take his team into a Copa America final match-up with Brazil after Tuesday's semi-final against Colombia finished 1-1 after 90 minutes.

Martinez, who tried to distract Colombia's players in the shootout with a barrage of trash talk, saved from Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina and Edwin Cardona.

Lionel Messi, Leandro Paredes and Lautaro Martinez scored for Argentina as they booked a spot against the host nation in Saturday’s final at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

“I’m speechless,” said Argentine keeper Martinez. “They took us to penalties and that’s a question of luck, today it was my turn for glory.”

Both sides had chances to win in an intense, end-to-end match punctuated by 46 fouls and 10 yellow cards.

Argentina are seeking to win their first major international title since lifting the Copa America in 1993 and once again Lionel Messi was the star man, notching up his fifth assist of the tournament to add to his four goals.

Taking a superb pass from Giovani Lo Celso after six minutes, Messi rolled the ball to Lautaro Martinez to fire home a low shot and give Argentina the lead.

Colombia found their feet soon after and hit the woodwork twice in a minute towards the end of the first half when Wilmar Barrio’s deflected shot struck the post and then Mina watched his header hit the bar from the resulting corner.

Their equaliser came on the hour mark when Luis Diaz finished from a tight angle to complete a surprise counter attack.

Argentina are now unbeaten in 19 games, with their last loss coming to Brazil in the semi-final of the 2019 Copa America. They were also the last team to beat Brazil, in November 2019 when Messi got the only goal of the game in a friendly in Saudi Arabia.

Since then Brazil, who beat Peru 1-0 on Monday to reach the final, have won 12 and drawn one.

Emiliano Martinez was the hero for Argentina as he saved three times in a shootout to take his team into a Copa America final match-up with Brazil after Tuesday's semi-final against Colombia finished 1-1 after 90 minutes.

Emiliano Martinez was the hero for Argentina as he saved three times in a shootout to take his team into a Copa America final match-up with Brazil after Tuesday's semi-final against Colombia finished 1-1 after 90 minutes. Martinez, who tried to distract Colombia's players in the shootout with a barrage of trash talk, saved from Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina and Edwin Cardona. Lionel Messi, Leandro Paredes and Lautaro Martinez scored for Argentina as they booked a spot against the host nation in Saturday’s final at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium. “I’m speechless,” said Argentine keeper Martinez. “They took us to penalties and that’s a question of luck, today it was my turn for glory.” Both sides had chances to win in an intense, end-to-end match punctuated by 46 fouls and 10 yellow cards. Argentina are seeking to win their first major international title since lifting the Copa America in 1993 and once again Lionel Messi was the star man, notching up his fifth assist of the tournament to add to his four goals. Taking a superb pass from Giovani Lo Celso after six minutes, Messi rolled the ball to Lautaro Martinez to fire home a low shot and give Argentina the lead. Colombia found their feet soon after and hit the woodwork twice in a minute towards the end of the first half when Wilmar Barrio’s deflected shot struck the post and then Mina watched his header hit the bar from the resulting corner. Their equaliser came on the hour mark when Luis Diaz finished from a tight angle to complete a surprise counter attack. Argentina are now unbeaten in 19 games, with their last loss coming to Brazil in the semi-final of the 2019 Copa America. They were also the last team to beat Brazil, in November 2019 when Messi got the only goal of the game in a friendly in Saudi Arabia. Since then Brazil, who beat Peru 1-0 on Monday to reach the final, have won 12 and drawn one.

Football: Argentina beat Colombia in shootout to reach Copa America final

A helicopter carrying Colombia's President Ivan Duque and others was struck by multiple bullets in an attack on Friday, he said in a video message. 
 
The incident took place while the president's helicopter was flying through Colombia's Catatumbo region towards the city of Cucuta, capital of the country's Norte de Santander province, Duque said. 
 
"What's clear is that this is a cowardly attack where bullet holes can be seen in the presidential aircraft," Duque said. 
 
As well as Duque, the helicopter was carrying other officials including Defence Minister Diego Molano, Interior Minister Daniel Palacios, and governor of Norte de Santander Silvano Serrano. 
 
No one was injured in the incident, a spokesman for the presidency said. 
 
Security personnel have been given clear instructions to find those behind the attack on the helicopter, the president added. 
 
The troubled Catatumbo region, on Colombia's border with Venezuela, is home to extensive coca crops, the chief ingredient of cocaine. It is where guerrillas of the leftist National Liberation Army (ELN) operate, former FARC fighters, who reject a 2016 peace deal with the government, along with armed criminal groups involved in drug trafficking. 
 
This month, a car bomb was detonated at a military base used by the 30th Army Brigade in Cucuta, injuring Colombian troops and US&nbsp;military advisers. 
 
While Molano said the attack could have been carried out by the ELN, the rebel group said it denied having any role in the bombing. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

A helicopter carrying Colombia's President Ivan Duque and others was struck by multiple bullets in an attack on Friday, he said in a video message. The incident took place while the president's helicopter was flying through Colombia's Catatumbo region towards the city of Cucuta, capital of the country's Norte de Santander province, Duque said.

A helicopter carrying Colombia's President Ivan Duque and others was struck by multiple bullets in an attack on Friday, he said in a video message. The incident took place while the president's helicopter was flying through Colombia's Catatumbo region towards the city of Cucuta, capital of the country's Norte de Santander province, Duque said. "What's clear is that this is a cowardly attack where bullet holes can be seen in the presidential aircraft," Duque said. As well as Duque, the helicopter was carrying other officials including Defence Minister Diego Molano, Interior Minister Daniel Palacios, and governor of Norte de Santander Silvano Serrano. No one was injured in the incident, a spokesman for the presidency said. Security personnel have been given clear instructions to find those behind the attack on the helicopter, the president added. The troubled Catatumbo region, on Colombia's border with Venezuela, is home to extensive coca crops, the chief ingredient of cocaine. It is where guerrillas of the leftist National Liberation Army (ELN) operate, former FARC fighters, who reject a 2016 peace deal with the government, along with armed criminal groups involved in drug trafficking. This month, a car bomb was detonated at a military base used by the 30th Army Brigade in Cucuta, injuring Colombian troops and US military advisers. While Molano said the attack could have been carried out by the ELN, the rebel group said it denied having any role in the bombing. (With inputs from agencies)

Helicopter carrying Colombia's President Duque struck by bullets in attack

Brazil went behind for the first time in eight games on Wednesday but responded with a controversial equaliser before netting a dramatic winner deep into stoppage time for a 2-1 victory over Colombia in the Copa America.

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Brazil had won their previous nine games coming into the match in Rio de Janeiro, all bar one of them without conceding a goal, but they went behind in the 10th minute thanks to a wonder strike from Luis Diaz.

Juan Cuadrado swung in a cross from the right and Porto midfielder Diaz leapt acrobatically to volley an overhead kick past a helpless Weverton.

Brazil were forced to chase the game and they had most of the ball and almost all the chances, though Colombia did an excellent job of closing them down in the final third.

The hosts eventually got an equaliser with 12 minutes remaining, though it came in controversial circumstances.

With Brazil on the attack, the ball hit referee Nestor Pitana and as Colombia's players paused expecting him to order a drop ball the Argentine, who refereed the 2018 World Cup final, allowed play to continue.

Brazil took full advantage as Roberto Firmino headed home a cross from the left, with goalkeeper David Ospina letting the ball squirm through his hands on the night he tied Carlos Valderrama as Colombia’s most capped male player with 111 appearances.

The Colombian players were incensed but the goal was allowed to stand, even after a check by the Video Assistant Referee.

Colombian coach Reinaldo Rueda refused to be drawn on the decision other than to say, “I think the situation with the referee distracted our players.”

There was worse to come for the visitors.

Their protests after the equaliser led to 10 minutes of stoppage time being added, and in the 100th minute of the match Casemiro headed home from a corner to give Brazil the win.

Captain Casemiro said Brazil fully deserved the three points.

"Brazil deserve congratulations for their mental strength, for being well on top, and getting our reward in the end because we had the coolness to keep plugging away in search of a goal," he added. "That’s the mentality you have to have.

"They came forward once, scored a goal, sat back and it turned into a game of attack against defence."

Brazil had already qualified for the quarter-finals and with four points from four games Colombia join them. Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela are vying for the last two spots from the group.

In Sunday's final group games, Ecuador face Brazil while Peru play Venezuela.

Brazil went behind for the first time in eight games on Wednesday but responded with a controversial equaliser before netting a dramatic winner deep into stoppage time for a 2-1 victory over Colombia in the Copa America.

Brazil went behind for the first time in eight games on Wednesday but responded with a controversial equaliser before netting a dramatic winner deep into stoppage time for a 2-1 victory over Colombia in the Copa America. ALSO READ: Football: England get the job done with 1-0 win over Czechs at Euro 2020 Brazil had won their previous nine games coming into the match in Rio de Janeiro, all bar one of them without conceding a goal, but they went behind in the 10th minute thanks to a wonder strike from Luis Diaz. Juan Cuadrado swung in a cross from the right and Porto midfielder Diaz leapt acrobatically to volley an overhead kick past a helpless Weverton. Brazil were forced to chase the game and they had most of the ball and almost all the chances, though Colombia did an excellent job of closing them down in the final third. The hosts eventually got an equaliser with 12 minutes remaining, though it came in controversial circumstances. With Brazil on the attack, the ball hit referee Nestor Pitana and as Colombia's players paused expecting him to order a drop ball the Argentine, who refereed the 2018 World Cup final, allowed play to continue. Brazil took full advantage as Roberto Firmino headed home a cross from the left, with goalkeeper David Ospina letting the ball squirm through his hands on the night he tied Carlos Valderrama as Colombia’s most capped male player with 111 appearances. The Colombian players were incensed but the goal was allowed to stand, even after a check by the Video Assistant Referee. Colombian coach Reinaldo Rueda refused to be drawn on the decision other than to say, “I think the situation with the referee distracted our players.” There was worse to come for the visitors. Their protests after the equaliser led to 10 minutes of stoppage time being added, and in the 100th minute of the match Casemiro headed home from a corner to give Brazil the win. Captain Casemiro said Brazil fully deserved the three points. "Brazil deserve congratulations for their mental strength, for being well on top, and getting our reward in the end because we had the coolness to keep plugging away in search of a goal," he added. "That’s the mentality you have to have. "They came forward once, scored a goal, sat back and it turned into a game of attack against defence." Brazil had already qualified for the quarter-finals and with four points from four games Colombia join them. Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela are vying for the last two spots from the group. In Sunday's final group games, Ecuador face Brazil while Peru play Venezuela.

Copa America: Late goal gives Brazil controversial 2-1 win over Colombia

At least 1,933 Venezuelan migrants were killed&nbsp;in&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;between 2015 and 2020, and another 836 are "considered missing," a Colombian NGO said Wednesday.&nbsp;

"While the national murder rate has been decreasing steadily... the murder rate of the Venezuelan population has grown and is 2.8 times higher," said Consultancy for Human Rights and Displacement (CODHES) in a report.

In a report on the situation based on official figures and complaints collected by the organization, the NGO said that "the irregular situation of a significant part of the population...has led them to face discrimination, xenophobia or stigmatization."&nbsp;

Nearly six million people have fled Venezuela, which has been in recession for eight years, and the country plunged into political crisis in January 2019 when opposition leader Juan Guaido, who was a parliamentary speaker at the time, declared himself acting president after Nicolas Maduro claimed a re-election victory widely condemned internationally as fraudulent.

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Some 1.8 million of those Venezuelan refugees are in&nbsp;Colombia, which began granting official residency to almost a million of them in March.&nbsp;

The government hopes to deliver a document by the end of the year that gives undocumented migrants a period of 10 years to acquire a resident visa.&nbsp;

Colombia&nbsp;and Venezuela have no diplomatic relations and share a porous border of about 1,400 miles (2,200 kilometres).&nbsp;

The NGO also warned about the sexual violence being perpetrated against the migrant population: 2,319 Venezuelans, mostly underage girls, suffered sexual attacks between 2015 and 2020.

At least 1,933 Venezuelan migrants were killed in Colombia between 2015 and 2020, and another 836 are "considered missing," a Colombian NGO said Wednesday. "While the national murder rate has been decreasing steadily.

At least 1,933 Venezuelan migrants were killed in Colombia between 2015 and 2020, and another 836 are "considered missing," a Colombian NGO said Wednesday. "While the national murder rate has been decreasing steadily... the murder rate of the Venezuelan population has grown and is 2.8 times higher," said Consultancy for Human Rights and Displacement (CODHES) in a report. In a report on the situation based on official figures and complaints collected by the organization, the NGO said that "the irregular situation of a significant part of the population...has led them to face discrimination, xenophobia or stigmatization." Nearly six million people have fled Venezuela, which has been in recession for eight years, and the country plunged into political crisis in January 2019 when opposition leader Juan Guaido, who was a parliamentary speaker at the time, declared himself acting president after Nicolas Maduro claimed a re-election victory widely condemned internationally as fraudulent. Also Read | John McAfee, antivirus software creator turned fugitive, dies by hanging in Spanish jail Some 1.8 million of those Venezuelan refugees are in Colombia, which began granting official residency to almost a million of them in March. The government hopes to deliver a document by the end of the year that gives undocumented migrants a period of 10 years to acquire a resident visa. Colombia and Venezuela have no diplomatic relations and share a porous border of about 1,400 miles (2,200 kilometres). The NGO also warned about the sexual violence being perpetrated against the migrant population: 2,319 Venezuelans, mostly underage girls, suffered sexual attacks between 2015 and 2020.

Almost 2,000 Venezuelan refugees murdered in Colombia in five years, NGO says

A new study revealed the overwhelming extent of biological diversity in Colombia, finding that the South American country is home to approximately 20 per cent of all known butterfly species in the world.

The research, undertaken by the Natural History Museum in London and published on Tuesday, was done by&nbsp;an international team of scientists. Together, they catalogued 3,642 species and 2,085 sub-species of butterflies, all of which were were registered in a document titled “Checklist of Colombian Butterflies”.&nbsp;

Blanca Huertas, the senior butterfly collection curator at the&nbsp;Natural History Museum and a member of the research team told AFP that more than 200 species of butterflies are found only in Colombia.&nbsp;

To ascertain this, researchers travelled across Colombia to analyse over 350,000 photographs and took&nbsp;into account information collated since the later part of 18th century.

"Colombia is a country with a great diversity of natural habitats, a complex and heterogeneous geography and a privileged location in the extreme northeast of South America," AFP cited the report as saying.

"These factors, added to the delicate public order in the last century in certain regions, has limited until now, the advancement of field exploration”, it added.

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Over the last century, Colombia has seen intense armed conflict. Some areas in the country remain under the control of leftist guerrillas, right-wing paramilitary groups and in many cases, drug lords. Many parts of the country still have little to no government presence.

Just between 2000 and 2019, Colombia has lost nearly 2.8 million hectares of forest land, according to data from the National Department of Planning.

Forest loss combined with inept governance isn’t helping the cause of Colombia’s diversity&nbsp;and environmentalists in the country are calling for the country to take measures to protect its forests. To this end, Huertas believes starting by protecting butterflies could be&nbsp;the first step.

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A new study revealed the overwhelming extent of biological diversity in Colombia, finding that the South American country is home to approximately 20 per cent of all known butterfly species in the world.

A new study revealed the overwhelming extent of biological diversity in Colombia, finding that the South American country is home to approximately 20 per cent of all known butterfly species in the world. The research, undertaken by the Natural History Museum in London and published on Tuesday, was done by an international team of scientists. Together, they catalogued 3,642 species and 2,085 sub-species of butterflies, all of which were were registered in a document titled “Checklist of Colombian Butterflies”. Blanca Huertas, the senior butterfly collection curator at the Natural History Museum and a member of the research team told AFP that more than 200 species of butterflies are found only in Colombia. To ascertain this, researchers travelled across Colombia to analyse over 350,000 photographs and took into account information collated since the later part of 18th century. "Colombia is a country with a great diversity of natural habitats, a complex and heterogeneous geography and a privileged location in the extreme northeast of South America," AFP cited the report as saying. "These factors, added to the delicate public order in the last century in certain regions, has limited until now, the advancement of field exploration”, it added. Also read: How NASA's plans to send detergent to ISS could change space exploration Over the last century, Colombia has seen intense armed conflict. Some areas in the country remain under the control of leftist guerrillas, right-wing paramilitary groups and in many cases, drug lords. Many parts of the country still have little to no government presence. Just between 2000 and 2019, Colombia has lost nearly 2.8 million hectares of forest land, according to data from the National Department of Planning. Forest loss combined with inept governance isn’t helping the cause of Colombia’s diversity and environmentalists in the country are calling for the country to take measures to protect its forests. To this end, Huertas believes starting by protecting butterflies could be the first step. Also read: Here's how you can watch the luminous 'Strawberry Supermoon' this Thursday

Colombia is home to 20% of all butterfly species in the world, study finds

Reported deaths from COVID-19 in Colombia passed 100,000 on Monday, the country`s health ministry said, amid warnings of potential scarcity of treatment drugs and oxygen in hospitals during a long and brutal third peak of infections and deaths. 
 
The country of 50 million people has reported more than 3.9 million cases of coronavirus infections, as well as 100,582 deaths. 
 
Colombia has seen record numbers of coronavirus infections and deaths in recent weeks, with some medical officials warning certain medical supplies are running low. 
 
Intensive care units (ICUs) in major cities are operating at near full capacity, according to information published by local health authorities in capital Bogota, as well as in Medellin and Cali, Colombia`s second-largest and third-largest cities respectively. 
 
"We`re starting to see scarcity of certain resources everywhere," Cesar Enciso, medical coordinator for intensive care at the University Children`s Hospital of San Jose in Bogota, told Reuters, citing a lack of sedatives and oxygen supplies. 
 
"If the situation continues with this number of cases every day, resources are going to run out," he added. 
 
The government has blamed weeks of anti-government protests for extending the third peak, which began after Easter. The country hit a record of 30,000 daily reported cases earlier this month, while Monday saw a new high of 648 daily deaths. 
 
"Crowds are the main breeding ground for this disease to spread exponentially," President Ivan Duque said in a ceremony to mark Colombia`s COVID-19 deaths. 
 
Despite the peak, the South American country has lifted many of the restrictions it imposed in March last year to control coronavirus, in a bid to bolster the economy and amid widespread frustration with social distancing measures. 
 
Colombia has administered over 14.9 million vaccine doses, of which more than 4.7 million are second doses. The country hopes to vaccinate some 35 million people - 70% of its population - this year.

Reported deaths from COVID-19 in Colombia passed 100,000 on Monday, the country`s health ministry said, amid warnings of potential scarcity of treatment drugs and oxygen in hospitals during a long and brutal third peak of infections and deaths.

Reported deaths from COVID-19 in Colombia passed 100,000 on Monday, the country`s health ministry said, amid warnings of potential scarcity of treatment drugs and oxygen in hospitals during a long and brutal third peak of infections and deaths. The country of 50 million people has reported more than 3.9 million cases of coronavirus infections, as well as 100,582 deaths. Colombia has seen record numbers of coronavirus infections and deaths in recent weeks, with some medical officials warning certain medical supplies are running low. Intensive care units (ICUs) in major cities are operating at near full capacity, according to information published by local health authorities in capital Bogota, as well as in Medellin and Cali, Colombia`s second-largest and third-largest cities respectively. "We`re starting to see scarcity of certain resources everywhere," Cesar Enciso, medical coordinator for intensive care at the University Children`s Hospital of San Jose in Bogota, told Reuters, citing a lack of sedatives and oxygen supplies. "If the situation continues with this number of cases every day, resources are going to run out," he added. The government has blamed weeks of anti-government protests for extending the third peak, which began after Easter. The country hit a record of 30,000 daily reported cases earlier this month, while Monday saw a new high of 648 daily deaths. "Crowds are the main breeding ground for this disease to spread exponentially," President Ivan Duque said in a ceremony to mark Colombia`s COVID-19 deaths. Despite the peak, the South American country has lifted many of the restrictions it imposed in March last year to control coronavirus, in a bid to bolster the economy and amid widespread frustration with social distancing measures. Colombia has administered over 14.9 million vaccine doses, of which more than 4.7 million are second doses. The country hopes to vaccinate some 35 million people - 70% of its population - this year.

Colombia's COVID-19 deaths pass 100,000 in unrelenting third wave

Argentina scored twice in the first eight minutes but could not withstand Colombia’s second-half pressure as the hosts rallied for a 2-2 draw in a thrilling World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made five changes from the team that drew 1-1 with Chile last week and his side got the best possible start when Cristian Romero, playing in just his second international, headed home from a free kick inside three minutes.

Leandro Paredes made it 2-0 five minutes later when he dribbled through a pack of Colombian defenders and slipped the ball past the keeper.

Argentina controlled the first half but their dominance waned just before halftime after their goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was taken off the field on a stretcher with a possible head injury following a goalmouth clash.

Argentina struggled to contain Colombia's Juan Cuadrado as the hosts started to create more opportunities, with Luis Muriel and Duvan Zapata both missing chances.

But they did get on the board five minutes into the second half after Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi used an arm to flatten Mateus Uribe and Muriel converted the penalty.

Argentina too had chances but found Colombia goalkeeper David Ospina in inspired form, twice making great saves to thwart Lionel Messi.

“I think we had the chances,” said Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul. “They have a great goalkeeper. We’re not happy with a draw.”

Just when it looked like Argentina would hold on, substitute Miguel Borja grabbed a deserved equaliser when his header squirmed under the body of replacement goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin deep into stoppage time.

“Unfortunately, we leave with one point when we deserved all three,” said Scaloni.

The result leaves Argentina in second place behind Brazil in the 10-team South American qualifying group. The top four teams qualify automatically for Qatar 2022 and the fifth-placed side go into an intercontinental playoff.

Earlier on Tuesday, Peru got their first victory of the campaign with a 2-1 win in Ecuador. Christian Cueva put Peru ahead after 63 minutes and Luis Advincula made it 2-0 with a minute remaining.

Gonzalo Plata scored in added time for the home side, who had a penalty award rescinded by the Video Assistant Referee early in the second half.

Hosts Venezuela held Uruguay to a 0-0 draw, the point leaving them joint bottom on four points with Peru and Bolivia, who

Argentina scored twice in the first eight minutes but could not withstand Colombia’s second-half pressure as the hosts rallied for a 2-2 draw in a thrilling World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Argentina scored twice in the first eight minutes but could not withstand Colombia’s second-half pressure as the hosts rallied for a 2-2 draw in a thrilling World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made five changes from the team that drew 1-1 with Chile last week and his side got the best possible start when Cristian Romero, playing in just his second international, headed home from a free kick inside three minutes. Leandro Paredes made it 2-0 five minutes later when he dribbled through a pack of Colombian defenders and slipped the ball past the keeper. Argentina controlled the first half but their dominance waned just before halftime after their goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was taken off the field on a stretcher with a possible head injury following a goalmouth clash. Argentina struggled to contain Colombia's Juan Cuadrado as the hosts started to create more opportunities, with Luis Muriel and Duvan Zapata both missing chances. But they did get on the board five minutes into the second half after Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi used an arm to flatten Mateus Uribe and Muriel converted the penalty. Argentina too had chances but found Colombia goalkeeper David Ospina in inspired form, twice making great saves to thwart Lionel Messi. “I think we had the chances,” said Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul. “They have a great goalkeeper. We’re not happy with a draw.” Just when it looked like Argentina would hold on, substitute Miguel Borja grabbed a deserved equaliser when his header squirmed under the body of replacement goalkeeper Agustin Marchesin deep into stoppage time. “Unfortunately, we leave with one point when we deserved all three,” said Scaloni. The result leaves Argentina in second place behind Brazil in the 10-team South American qualifying group. The top four teams qualify automatically for Qatar 2022 and the fifth-placed side go into an intercontinental playoff. Earlier on Tuesday, Peru got their first victory of the campaign with a 2-1 win in Ecuador. Christian Cueva put Peru ahead after 63 minutes and Luis Advincula made it 2-0 with a minute remaining. Gonzalo Plata scored in added time for the home side, who had a penalty award rescinded by the Video Assistant Referee early in the second half. Hosts Venezuela held Uruguay to a 0-0 draw, the point leaving them joint bottom on four points with Peru and Bolivia, who

Football: Colombia score in added time to grab 2-2 draw with Argentina

Colombians are set to march in the streets again on Wednesday amid a stalemate at talks between the government and leaders of anti-government protests which are stretching into their second month. 
 
Demonstrations against the social and economic policies of President Ivan Duque began on April 28, with marchers demanding a basic income, opportunities for young people, and an end to police violence. 
 
An umbrella national strike committee made up of unions, student groups and other civil society organisations is representing marchers in discussions with the government. 
 
Last week the two sides reached a so-called pre-agreement, the details of which have not yet been released. But the committee later accused the government of backtracking and talks on Tuesday ended without further advances. 
 
The government said protest leaders need to condemn road blocks which have caused shortages around the country and hit exports of coffee, coal and other products, adding that that was non-negotiable. The committee has said it does not have sway over all protesters. 
 
Francisco Maltes, president of the Central Union of Workers (CUT), who sits on the committee, accused the government of delaying the signing of the pre-agreement that includes guarantees the committee says are needed to protect protesters` rights. 
 
"All these actions are to pressure the government into starting negotiations," Maltes told Reuters. "The government lacks the political will to seek an agreement. We are waiting for the government to sign the pre-agreement for guarantees." 
 
Protesters count the withdrawal of tax and health reforms and the resignation of the former finance minister among their victories. 
 
Security forces have gradually lifted some blockades, but 38 remain, according to the defence minister. Marches have seen sporadic violence. 
 
The attorney general`s office says 20 deaths are linked directly to demonstrations, while rights groups report dozens killed by security forces. 
 
The national police has said it will investigate police who stood by as people dressed in civilian clothes fired on protesters in Cali - the country`s third-largest city and epicentre&nbsp;of the protests - late last week.

Colombians are set to march in the streets again on Wednesday amid a stalemate at talks between the government and leaders of anti-government protests which are stretching into their second month.

Colombians are set to march in the streets again on Wednesday amid a stalemate at talks between the government and leaders of anti-government protests which are stretching into their second month. Demonstrations against the social and economic policies of President Ivan Duque began on April 28, with marchers demanding a basic income, opportunities for young people, and an end to police violence. An umbrella national strike committee made up of unions, student groups and other civil society organisations is representing marchers in discussions with the government. Last week the two sides reached a so-called pre-agreement, the details of which have not yet been released. But the committee later accused the government of backtracking and talks on Tuesday ended without further advances. The government said protest leaders need to condemn road blocks which have caused shortages around the country and hit exports of coffee, coal and other products, adding that that was non-negotiable. The committee has said it does not have sway over all protesters. Francisco Maltes, president of the Central Union of Workers (CUT), who sits on the committee, accused the government of delaying the signing of the pre-agreement that includes guarantees the committee says are needed to protect protesters` rights. "All these actions are to pressure the government into starting negotiations," Maltes told Reuters. "The government lacks the political will to seek an agreement. We are waiting for the government to sign the pre-agreement for guarantees." Protesters count the withdrawal of tax and health reforms and the resignation of the former finance minister among their victories. Security forces have gradually lifted some blockades, but 38 remain, according to the defence minister. Marches have seen sporadic violence. The attorney general`s office says 20 deaths are linked directly to demonstrations, while rights groups report dozens killed by security forces. The national police has said it will investigate police who stood by as people dressed in civilian clothes fired on protesters in Cali - the country`s third-largest city and epicentre of the protests - late last week.

In Colombia, protesters march on as talks stall and blockades remain

The South American&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Confederation (CONMEBOL)&nbsp;said on Sunday (May 30) that Argentina would no longer host the Copa America, throwing the troubled tournament into doubt just 13 days before it was due to kick off.

The tournament between ten South American nations was scheduled to be held in Argentina and Colombia between June 13 and July 10 but Colombia was removed as co-host on May 20 and Argentina has now followed due to what CONMEBOL said was "the present circumstances."

CONMEBOL did not disclose the nature of the circumstances that led to the decision but Argentina is currently suffering from a surge in COVID-19 cases.

"CONMEBOL is analyzing offers from other countries that have shown interest in hosting the continental tournament," it said in a short statement. "Updates will be announced soon."

Sunday's decision was announced shortly before 11 p.m. in Argentina and comes as yet another blow to a tournament that was held over from 2020 due to the pandemic.

This year's Copa America was to be the first featuring joint hosts but Colombia was removed as co-hosts after a wave of protests demanding social and economic change spread across the country.

CONMEBOL said the 15 games scheduled for Colombia would be moved either to Argentina, which was due to host the other 13 matches, or somewhere else.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Sunday (May 30) that Argentina would no longer host the Copa America, throwing the troubled tournament into doubt just 13 days before it was due to kick off.

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said on Sunday (May 30) that Argentina would no longer host the Copa America, throwing the troubled tournament into doubt just 13 days before it was due to kick off. The tournament between ten South American nations was scheduled to be held in Argentina and Colombia between June 13 and July 10 but Colombia was removed as co-host on May 20 and Argentina has now followed due to what CONMEBOL said was "the present circumstances." CONMEBOL did not disclose the nature of the circumstances that led to the decision but Argentina is currently suffering from a surge in COVID-19 cases. "CONMEBOL is analyzing offers from other countries that have shown interest in hosting the continental tournament," it said in a short statement. "Updates will be announced soon." Sunday's decision was announced shortly before 11 p.m. in Argentina and comes as yet another blow to a tournament that was held over from 2020 due to the pandemic. This year's Copa America was to be the first featuring joint hosts but Colombia was removed as co-hosts after a wave of protests demanding social and economic change spread across the country. CONMEBOL said the 15 games scheduled for Colombia would be moved either to Argentina, which was due to host the other 13 matches, or somewhere else.

Football: Argentina no longer hosting Copa America: CONMEBOL

The Colombian army on Saturday tightened its control over Cali, the country's third largest city, after the latest anti-government protests left at least 13 people dead. 
 
The city's streets were largely deserted after clashes late Friday pitted police against armed civilians. The country is in the second month of protests against the government of President Ivan Duque.&nbsp; 
 
In Cali, a city of 2.2 million, the smoking remains of barricades and rubble heaps testified to the chaotic night. There, as across the country, poverty and the pandemic have sparked widespread anger and resentment. 
 
The month of protests has left at least 59 people dead, officials say, including the 13 who died in Cali. More than 2,300 civilians and uniformed personnel have been injured, according to the Defense Ministry. 
 
The NGO Human Rights Watch cited "credible reports" of at least 63 deaths nationwide, and called the situation in Cali "very serious." 
 
The dead in Cali included an off-duty employee of the prosecutor's office who had fired his gun at two protesters blocking a street, killing one of them. Video on social media shows a crowd then pouncing on the shooter and lynching him. 
 
Duque, who has been in Cali since Friday, said he was deploying military troops to support the police there and elsewhere as rallies have morphed into a broad anti-establishment mobilisation. 
 
The president ordered 7,000 troops to help clear and patrol blockaded roads in 10 departments, while a total of 1,141 soldiers were deployed in Cali. 
 
At one point Saturday Duque was booed by a crowd as he appeared in public in Cali before traveling to the town of Popayan. 
 
"He is a disgrace," one youth shouted while crying in a video circulating on social media.

'Almost an urban war' 
One witness, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisal, told AFP that a group of protesters in Cali were celebrating the one-month anniversary of the anti-government rallies when "shots rang out." 
 
"They started massacring people," the 22-year-old said. He said the shots came from "five guys in civilian clothes behind the trees." 
 
Videos that went viral supported his account. Police said in a statement they were investigating. 
 
"In the south of the city we had a real scene of confrontation and almost an urban war where many people not only lost their lives, but we also had a significant number of injuries," said Cali's security secretary Carlos Rojas. 
 
Duque, who on Friday chaired a security meeting in the city, afterward announced "the maximum deployment of military assistance to the national police" would begin immediately.&nbsp; 
 
Jose Miguel Vivanco, the Human Rights Watch executive director for the Americas, urged Duque to take "urgent measures to de-escalate, including a specific order prohibiting agents of the state from using firearms." 
 
The police in Colombia are under the command of the military.

Poverty, disease, resentment 
People in Cali's poorer neighbourhoods told AFP the military deployment makes them more fearful, not less. 
 
"We feel threatened, we feel more in danger," said Lina Gallegas, a 31-year-old social leader. "If something happens we cannot call the police because they are the ones who are killing." 
 
Luis Felipe Vega, a political scientist at Javeriana University, likened the deployment to "putting out a fire with gasoline." 
 
Government mediation attempts have been largely futile, unable to contain the fury of increasingly politicised youth battered by the pandemic and angered about the country's deep inequalities. An estimated one-third of those aged 14 to 28 are jobless and not in school. 
 
Duque's attempts at negotiation have been further frustrated by forces in his rightist Democratic Center party, who prefer an iron-fist approach with elections a year away. 
 
Economists say more than 42 percent of the country's 50 million people live in poverty, and the pandemic has plunged many of the vulnerable into penury. 
 
Analysts link the government's militarised history to its response to the protests. For more than 50 years, Colombia's war against leftist FARC guerrillas eclipsed all other government priorities, leaving a militarily strong government but one weak on social redress. 
 
In 2019, the year after Duque took power, students took to the streets demanding free and more accessible public education and better jobs. 
 
On April 28, fury at a proposed tax increase led people onto the streets again.&nbsp; The proposal was quickly withdrawn, but it had triggered a broad mobilisation that only grew amid a heavy-handed response by security forces. 
 
Protesters have kept barricades burning countrywide and blocked dozens of key roads, causing shortages of many products.

The Colombian army on Saturday tightened its control over Cali, the country's third largest city, after the latest anti-government protests left at least 13 people dead.

The Colombian army on Saturday tightened its control over Cali, the country's third largest city, after the latest anti-government protests left at least 13 people dead. The city's streets were largely deserted after clashes late Friday pitted police against armed civilians. The country is in the second month of protests against the government of President Ivan Duque. In Cali, a city of 2.2 million, the smoking remains of barricades and rubble heaps testified to the chaotic night. There, as across the country, poverty and the pandemic have sparked widespread anger and resentment. The month of protests has left at least 59 people dead, officials say, including the 13 who died in Cali. More than 2,300 civilians and uniformed personnel have been injured, according to the Defense Ministry. The NGO Human Rights Watch cited "credible reports" of at least 63 deaths nationwide, and called the situation in Cali "very serious." The dead in Cali included an off-duty employee of the prosecutor's office who had fired his gun at two protesters blocking a street, killing one of them. Video on social media shows a crowd then pouncing on the shooter and lynching him. Duque, who has been in Cali since Friday, said he was deploying military troops to support the police there and elsewhere as rallies have morphed into a broad anti-establishment mobilisation. The president ordered 7,000 troops to help clear and patrol blockaded roads in 10 departments, while a total of 1,141 soldiers were deployed in Cali. At one point Saturday Duque was booed by a crowd as he appeared in public in Cali before traveling to the town of Popayan. "He is a disgrace," one youth shouted while crying in a video circulating on social media. 'Almost an urban war' One witness, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisal, told AFP that a group of protesters in Cali were celebrating the one-month anniversary of the anti-government rallies when "shots rang out." "They started massacring people," the 22-year-old said. He said the shots came from "five guys in civilian clothes behind the trees." Videos that went viral supported his account. Police said in a statement they were investigating. "In the south of the city we had a real scene of confrontation and almost an urban war where many people not only lost their lives, but we also had a significant number of injuries," said Cali's security secretary Carlos Rojas. Duque, who on Friday chaired a security meeting in the city, afterward announced "the maximum deployment of military assistance to the national police" would begin immediately. Jose Miguel Vivanco, the Human Rights Watch executive director for the Americas, urged Duque to take "urgent measures to de-escalate, including a specific order prohibiting agents of the state from using firearms." The police in Colombia are under the command of the military. Poverty, disease, resentment People in Cali's poorer neighbourhoods told AFP the military deployment makes them more fearful, not less. "We feel threatened, we feel more in danger," said Lina Gallegas, a 31-year-old social leader. "If something happens we cannot call the police because they are the ones who are killing." Luis Felipe Vega, a political scientist at Javeriana University, likened the deployment to "putting out a fire with gasoline." Government mediation attempts have been largely futile, unable to contain the fury of increasingly politicised youth battered by the pandemic and angered about the country's deep inequalities. An estimated one-third of those aged 14 to 28 are jobless and not in school. Duque's attempts at negotiation have been further frustrated by forces in his rightist Democratic Center party, who prefer an iron-fist approach with elections a year away. Economists say more than 42 percent of the country's 50 million people live in poverty, and the pandemic has plunged many of the vulnerable into penury. Analysts link the government's militarised history to its response to the protests. For more than 50 years, Colombia's war against leftist FARC guerrillas eclipsed all other government priorities, leaving a militarily strong government but one weak on social redress. In 2019, the year after Duque took power, students took to the streets demanding free and more accessible public education and better jobs. On April 28, fury at a proposed tax increase led people onto the streets again. The proposal was quickly withdrawn, but it had triggered a broad mobilisation that only grew amid a heavy-handed response by security forces. Protesters have kept barricades burning countrywide and blocked dozens of key roads, causing shortages of many products.

Colombian army tightens grip on Cali after protests leave 13 dead

The UN rights chief voiced alarm Sunday at deadly clashes in the Colombian city of Cali, calling for an independent investigation and accountability for the violence.

Pointing to reports that 14 people had died since Friday amid massive anti-government protests in&nbsp;Colombia's third-largest city, Michelle Bachelet said a swift investigation and resumption of dialogue was needed.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombian-army-tightens-grip-on-cali-after-protests-leave-13-dead-388320">Colombian army tightens grip on Cali after protests leave 13 dead</a>

"It is essential that all those who are reportedly involved in causing injury or death, including state officials, are subject to prompt, effective, independent, impartial and transparent investigations and that those responsible are held accountable," the UN High Commissioner said in a statement.

Her comments came after the Colombian army on Saturday tightened its control over Cali, a city of 2.2 million after clashes pitted police against armed civilians.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-calls-for-dialogue-with-protest-leaders-383372">Colombia calls for dialogue with protest leaders</a>

The country is in the second month of protests against the government of President Ivan Duque.

Officials have said the month of protests had left at least 59 people dead, and that more than 2,300 civilians and uniformed personnel have been injured.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-march-in-colombia-in-fourth-day-of-protests-against-tax-plan-382111">Thousands march in Colombia in fourth day of protests against tax plan</a>

The NGO Human Rights Watch cited "credible reports" of at least 63 deaths nationwide, and called the situation in Cali "very serious."

Bachelet's office cited reports that 14 people had been killed in Cali since Friday, and 98 had been injured, including 54 by firearms.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-ups-deployment-of-security-forces-to-cali-amid-violence-381886">Colombia ups deployment of security forces to Cali amid violence</a>

The dead in Cali included an off-duty employee of the prosecutor's office who had fired his gun at two protesters blocking a street, killing one of them. Video on social media shows a crowd then pouncing on the shooter and lynching him.

The rights office also pointed to reports of private individuals firing shots at demonstrators in the presence of police officers in parts of the city.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-of-colombians-take-it-to-streets-to-protest-against-tax-increase-381328/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"These events are all the more concerning given the progress that had been made to resolve, through dialogue, the social unrest that erupted a month ago, following the start of a nation-wide strike against several social and economic policies of the government," the UN rights chief said.

"I call for an end to all forms of violence, including vandalism, and for all sides to continue talking to each other, and to ensure respect for the life and dignity of all people,” she said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-sends-military-to-western-province-after-four-die-during-protests-388138">Colombia sends military to western province after four die during protests</a>

Bachelet, a former Chilean president, stressed that only dialogue could resolve the demands of different groups on both sides.

"I welcome the commitment voiced by several actors, in Cali and at the national level, to find a negotiated and peaceful solution to the social unrest through talks," she said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/locals-continue-demonstrations-as-colombia-protests-complete-one-month-387958">Locals continue demonstrations as Colombia protests complete one month</a>

The UN rights office also said it had received information of at least 30 people arrested in Cali since Friday, and highlighted concerns about the whereabouts of some of them.

"The fair trial and due process rights of those detained need to be ensured," Bachelet said.

She also stressed the need to take all necessary measures in line with international human rights standards to prevent disappearances.

The UN rights chief voiced alarm Sunday at deadly clashes in the Colombian city of Cali, calling for an independent investigation and accountability for the violence.

The UN rights chief voiced alarm Sunday at deadly clashes in the Colombian city of Cali, calling for an independent investigation and accountability for the violence. Pointing to reports that 14 people had died since Friday amid massive anti-government protests in Colombia's third-largest city, Michelle Bachelet said a swift investigation and resumption of dialogue was needed. Also Read | Colombian army tightens grip on Cali after protests leave 13 dead "It is essential that all those who are reportedly involved in causing injury or death, including state officials, are subject to prompt, effective, independent, impartial and transparent investigations and that those responsible are held accountable," the UN High Commissioner said in a statement. Her comments came after the Colombian army on Saturday tightened its control over Cali, a city of 2.2 million after clashes pitted police against armed civilians. Also Read | Colombia calls for dialogue with protest leaders The country is in the second month of protests against the government of President Ivan Duque. Officials have said the month of protests had left at least 59 people dead, and that more than 2,300 civilians and uniformed personnel have been injured. Also Read | Thousands march in Colombia in fourth day of protests against tax plan The NGO Human Rights Watch cited "credible reports" of at least 63 deaths nationwide, and called the situation in Cali "very serious." Bachelet's office cited reports that 14 people had been killed in Cali since Friday, and 98 had been injured, including 54 by firearms. Also Read | Colombia ups deployment of security forces to Cali amid violence The dead in Cali included an off-duty employee of the prosecutor's office who had fired his gun at two protesters blocking a street, killing one of them. Video on social media shows a crowd then pouncing on the shooter and lynching him. The rights office also pointed to reports of private individuals firing shots at demonstrators in the presence of police officers in parts of the city. "These events are all the more concerning given the progress that had been made to resolve, through dialogue, the social unrest that erupted a month ago, following the start of a nation-wide strike against several social and economic policies of the government," the UN rights chief said. "I call for an end to all forms of violence, including vandalism, and for all sides to continue talking to each other, and to ensure respect for the life and dignity of all people,” she said. Also Read | Colombia sends military to western province after four die during protests Bachelet, a former Chilean president, stressed that only dialogue could resolve the demands of different groups on both sides. "I welcome the commitment voiced by several actors, in Cali and at the national level, to find a negotiated and peaceful solution to the social unrest through talks," she said. Also Read | Locals continue demonstrations as Colombia protests complete one month The UN rights office also said it had received information of at least 30 people arrested in Cali since Friday, and highlighted concerns about the whereabouts of some of them. "The fair trial and due process rights of those detained need to be ensured," Bachelet said. She also stressed the need to take all necessary measures in line with international human rights standards to prevent disappearances.

UN rights chief urges independent probe into deaths in Colombia

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