Puerto Wilches demands justice for Gerlein Joya

Family and friends of 22-year-old Gerlein Giovanna Joya Ibáñez held a candlelight vigil in Puerto Wilches, Santander, to demand justice following her death. The case is being investigated as a potential femicide.

On the morning of October 19, Joya was reportedly intercepted while traveling to work near kilometer 16 of the road in the San Claver district. She sustained three gunshot wounds to the head. Although initially reported as a traffic accident, medical examinations later confirmed the nature of the injuries. She passed away in Bucaramanga on October 21 after receiving medical treatment.

Local councilwoman Erika Johana Passos has raised concerns that the attack may be linked to Joya's decision to end a romantic relationship with her former partner. According to the allegations, the assailant intercepted her and subsequently burned her motorcycle. Authorities are working to determine if the crime meets the legal criteria for femicide and to identify the responsible party.