'We will not allow those seeking to sow terror to disturb the peace': Char responds to threats against commerce in Barranquilla and Soledad
The mayor of Barranquilla reacted to the intimidations that led some businesses not to open this Saturday for fear of reprisals.
The fear that gripped some commercial sectors of Barranquilla and Soledad this Saturday, July 4 prompted a reaction from Mayor Alejandro Char, who said that authorities are working in a coordinated manner to confront the threats that have generated fear among merchants and street vendors.
The situation became visible from the early hours of the day. In southeastern sectors of Barranquilla and in neighborhoods of Soledad, several corner stores and small establishments remained closed, despite reinforced patrols and calls from authorities to maintain normal activities.
The fear arose after the circulation of messages via WhatsApp and pamphlets spread on social media, in which unknown individuals issued threats against those who did not heed a supposed order to close. The origin and authorship of those messages are under investigation.
In the midst of the tension, Char reacted on his social media and acknowledged the existing concern among citizens.
"Barranquilleros, today I want to tell you that, despite the threats from criminal groups, we continue working tirelessly for your security, peace of mind, and confidence," the mayor wrote.
Char acknowledges concern over the intimidations
The mayor referred directly to the impact that the threats have caused among merchants and street vendors, two sectors that expressed greater uncertainty during the day.
"I am aware of the **concern that the intimidations of a criminal group have generated against merchants and street vendors. I want to assure you that we are working intensely and in coordination with metropolitan and departmental authorities to guarantee the safety of all our citizens," Char said.
Barranquilleros, today I want to tell you that, despite the threats from criminal groups, we continue working tirelessly for your security, peace of mind, and confidence.
I am aware of the concern that the intimidations of a criminal group against merchants Show more
In another part of his statement, the district mayor issued a message regarding those behind the intimidations.
"We will not allow those seeking to sow terror to disturb the peace of our territory."
Char also reported that security measures were reinforced and institutional coordination strengthened to respond to the situation.
"Today we have reinforced security measures and strengthened coordination with district authorities. I assure you that we will continue acting firmly and decisively within the law," he said.
The fear keeps some businesses closed
The mayor's statement came while on the streets a reality marked by uncertainty persisted. Although in both Barranquilla and Soledad many establishments opened and carried out their activities, other merchants preferred to keep their businesses closed.
EL TIEMPO spoke with merchants and citizens who confirmed that fear of possible reprisals influenced the decision not to open. Some indicated that they knew about or received messages via WhatsApp demanding that activities be suspended this Saturday.
The concern is greater among corner store owners who have their businesses in the same house where their families live. For them, the decision to lower the shutter does not only mean the possibility of losing a day's sales, but the fear of exposing themselves to a possible attack.
"We are afraid to open the stores. It's not easy to work like this," said one of the shopkeepers consulted by EL TIEMPO.
The scene of closed establishments contrasted with the increased patrols deployed since Friday by the Police, the Army, and Gaula units in various points of Barranquilla, Soledad, and Malambo.
Mayor asks to avoid rumors and report
Given the massive circulation of messages and content on social media, Char asked citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unconfirmed information.
"I invite all Barranquilleros to remain calm, avoid spreading rumors on social media, and report any suspicious facts or situations to the authorities through institutional channels."
The mayor also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the community and security agencies.
"The permanent cooperation between citizens and administrative and police authorities is essential to overcome this situation."
The authorities maintain open investigations to determine the authenticity, origin, and those responsible for the intimidating messages. So far, according to available information, it has not been publicly established who is behind the spread of the pamphlets.
Governor announces permanent deployment
In addition to Barranquilla's mayor's reaction, Atlántico Governor Eduardo Verano also weighed in, reporting on the actions taken in response to the threats known in three municipalities.
"In response to the anonymous threats against merchants in Soledad, Malambo, and Barranquilla, I want to inform you that, together with @PoliciaBquilla and @COL_EJERCITO, we maintain a permanent deployment to guarantee the safety of the people of Atlántico. Fear will not alter coexistence and security in the department," Verano wrote on his X account.
In Soledad, the Mayor's Office also reported on the strengthening of operations through the Caravanas por la Vida (Caravans for Life) strategy, with participation from the National Police, the National Army, and the Military Gaula.
The municipal administration asked the community to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and report suspicious situations through official channels. The operations are especially concentrated in commercial sectors and areas where complaints related to the intimidations have been reported.
