Medellín authorities expel 17 Venezuelan citizens

Authorities in Medellín, Colombia, have expelled 17 Venezuelan citizens following a joint operation involving the Medellín Mayor's Office, Migración Colombia, and the National Police. The individuals were identified as having criminal records or involvement in various offenses within the city, including theft, drug trafficking, possession of bladed weapons, and disturbing public order.

Mayor Federico Gutiérrez reported that three of the expelled individuals were subject to active judicial warrants in Venezuela for serious crimes, such as homicide, kidnapping, and aggravated robbery. Additionally, one individual was identified as a fraudster who used religious clothing to solicit money from passersby under the guise of being a priest.

The Mayor emphasized that while those who come to Medellín to work and invest are welcome, the city will take action against those who violate the law. Authorities stated that these administrative expulsion measures are part of ongoing inter-institutional efforts to enforce legal requirements and maintain public order.