Visiting and Contacting
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Embassy Messages for U.S. Citizens ("Warden Messages")
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Vigilance Advised. 03/06/2009
The United States Embassy advises American citizens traveling to or residing in Colombia of the risk of being drugged and subsequently robbed at public venues. The Embassy continues to receive reports of criminals in Colombia using disabling drugs, such as Scopolamine, to temporarily incapacitate tourists and other individuals. At bars, restaurants, and other public areas, perpetrators may offer tainted drinks, cigarettes, or gum. Typically, victims become disoriented or unconscious, and are thus vulnerable to robbery, sexual assault, and other crimes. Avoid leaving food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant, and be suspicious if a stranger offers you something to eat or drink.
A recent trend shows a dramatic increase in Scopolamine attacks in the “Galerias” district (between Calles 53 and 54 with Carreras 24 through 27) and the “Plaza de las Americas” district (Avenida Primera de Mayo between Carrera 68 and Avenida Boyaca) in Bogota. Due to the number of Americans who have been victimized in these areas, and the high frequency of Scopolamine type incidents, these areas are off limits to official Embassy personnel.
The Embassy urges all Americans to adhere to the following recommendations to minimize the possibility of being a victim to these types of crimes:
- Avoid going to bars or nightclubs alone (although groups have been targeted as well),
- Never leave food or drinks unattended,
- Do not accept food or drinks from strangers,
- Do not leave bars, restaurants, or nightclubs with strangers.
In the event of a suspected Scopolamine type incident, victims should seek medical assistance immediately, and report the crime to Colombian Police Authorities and the U.S. Embassy.
For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State Department's travel registration website at https://travelregistration.state.gov.
In case of an emergency, please contact the Consular Section at the Embassy in Bogota, Carrera 45, # 24B-27, Bogota, D.C., Colombia. Emergency telephone contact may be made 24 hours a day at (571)
315-0811.