A paradise under terror: violence besieges the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
Police stand guard at the entrance to Tayrona National Natural Park, Photo: LUIS ACOSTA/AFP
TL;DR
- Paramilitary violence from the Autodefensas Conquistadoras de la Sierra Nevada (ACSN) plagues the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
- The ACSN finances itself through drug trafficking routes and controls territory, extorting businesses and terrorizing indigenous communities.
- President Petro closed the Tayrona Park due to extortion, blockades, and threats against park rangers.
- Indigenous leaders express fear and concern for their future amidst the escalating violence.
- The conflict has intensified with the involvement of the Clan del Golfo cartel attempting to take control of the region.
- The ACSN exercises de facto authority through armed governance and illegal gold mining, polluting water sources.
- The violence is damaging the tourism sector's reputation, with fears of reduced visitor numbers.