# Colombian government security deployment controversies > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/colombian-government-security-deployment-controversies > Updated: 2026-10-14T15:44:19.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2. The Colombian government has faced scrutiny regarding the use of armed security during political encounters and public demonstrations. Following a meeting in Coveñas, the Department of the Presidency defended the presence of armed men in civilian clothing, stating they were part of the official security detail following established protocols. This response addressed claims by the mayor of Sincelejo that the presence was intended to intimidate him during a tense discussion regarding corruption allegations. Later, the President of the Colombian Congress defended the deployment of military personnel on the terraces of the National Capitol during protests in Bogotá. The authorization was reportedly made to ensure the safety of former President Gustavo Petro following a request from his security detail. While some lawmakers characterized the move as an attempt to monitor social movements, officials maintained it was a preventive measure for protecting a public figure. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-14: Colombia Congress President clarifies military presence at Capitol Congress President Honorio Henríquez authorized armed military personnel on the National Capitol terraces to protect former President Gustavo Petro during protests in Bogotá. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombia-congress-president-clarifies-military-presence-at-capitol ### 2026-10-06: Colombian government defends presence of armed security at presidential meeting The Colombian government denied claims of intimidation by Sincelejo Mayor Yahir Acuña, stating that armed men present during his meeting with President Abelardo de la Espriella were official security personnel. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/colombian-government-defends-presence-of-armed-security-at-presidential-meeting --- Cite as: Colombian government security deployment controversies. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/colombian-government-security-deployment-controversies