# Colombia INPEC prison controversies

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/colombia-inpec-prison-controversies
> Updated: 2026-08-05T18:34:56.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In July 2026, INPEC faced an indefinite protest after arrests at El Barne prison in Boyacá led to the shutdown of prison services. The demonstration highlighted inmate grievances and put pressure on the prison authority.

By early August 2026, INPEC officials were responding to a separate incident—a Vallenato music party held inside Itagüí prison. The authorities claimed they followed procedures and were unaware of how performers, visitors and equipment entered the facility. An internal disciplinary investigation was launched, and administrative measures were taken against several staff members. Both events illustrate ongoing scrutiny of INPEC’s management of Colombian prisons and its handling of internal controversies.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-05: Inpec officials defend conduct after Vallenato party at Itagüí prison

Inpec officials say they followed protocol during the Vallenato party at Itagüí prison, which featured singer Nelson Velásquez, as a disciplinary probe examines how unauthorized guests and equipment entered the

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/inpec-officials-defend-conduct-after-vallenato-party-at-itag-prison

### 2026-07-10: Indefinite INPEC protest over arrests shuts down services at El Barne prison, Boyacá

INPEC staff protest at Boyacá’s El Barne prison over a raid on an extortion gang, halting inmate intake and visits; unions cite 46 % overcrowding and the governor orders signal jammers.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/indefinite-inpec-protest-over-arrests-shuts-down-services-at-el-barne-prison-boyac

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Cite as: Colombia INPEC prison controversies. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/colombia-inpec-prison-controversies