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2026-09-02 08:49 UTC → 2026-09-03 15:50 UTC ·
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Colombian lawmakers have introduced legislative measures aimed at curbing vandalism during public demonstrations. The proposed bill, referred to as the ‘Ley Anticapuchos’, Anticapuchos’ legislative proposal has officially reached the Colombian Congress. Introduced by representatives Jaime Arizabaleta and Julio César Triana, the bill seeks to amend the Penal Code to penalize individuals who criminalize the deliberate concealment of identity—such as through the use hoods, of masks, hoods, or balaclavas balaclavas—when used to conceal their identities while committing crimes. facilitate vandalism or other crimes during public demonstrations. Under the proposal, proposed measures, offenders could face prison sentences between 54 and 96 months, with penalties increasing months. Penalties are set to increase to 160 months if explosives are used utilized or if critical public infrastructure like hospitals and infrastructure, such as schools are and hospitals, is targeted. The legislation initiative also includes heavy fines and potential disqualification from holding public office. Proponents office, while specifically targeting illegal road and transport blockades that threaten food security, public health, or the right to work. While proponents argue the bill legislation is designed necessary to protect public property and ensure the right to peaceful protest by specifically targeting those who use anonymity to facilitate commit illegal acts. Additionally, acts, critics have raised concerns that the initiative targets illegal road law could potentially infringe upon freedom of expression and transport blockades that threaten public health, food security, or the fundamental right to work. peaceful protest.