U.S. Department of State Warns Against Using Dating Apps in Colombia • Hollywood Unlocked

The U.S. Department of State is urging caution and warning travelers. In a recent notice posted by the U.S. Embassy in Bogota, it was revealed that there have been eight suspicious deaths of U.S. citizens in Medellin between November 1 and December 31, 2023.

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Criminals in Colombia are using dating apps as a means to lure victims into meeting them in public places such as hotels, restaurants, and bars. Once the victims are in their presence, they are assaulted and robbed. Disturbingly, there have been cases where U.S. citizens have been drugged, robbed, or even killed by their dates. These incidents have been reported in major cities like Medellin, Cartagena, and Bogota.

Unfortunately, many of these crimes go unreported as victims may feel embarrassed or reluctant to go through the judicial process. The Tourism Observatory of the District Personnel of Medellin has revealed that a majority of the violent deaths in Medellin in 2023 were U.S. citizens. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Colombia in light of these safety concerns, according to USA TODAY.

“Violent crime, such as homicide, assault, and armed robbery, is widespread. Organized criminal activities, such as extortion, robbery, and kidnapping, are common in some areas. Terrorist groups and criminal organizations continue operating and carrying out attacks in Colombia. They may attack with little or no warning, targeting transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, other public areas, and U.S. government facilities.”

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Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the current security situation in Colombia, follow local authorities’ advice, and exercise vigilance while exploring the country. It is also recommended to stay in reputable accommodations, avoid traveling alone at night, and be cautious of sharing personal information with strangers.

The recent case of Tou Ger Xiong, an American comedian and activist, has shed light on the alarming dangers faced by travelers in Colombia. Xiong, a 50-year-old Asian-American residing in Minnesota, tragically lost his life while on vacation in Colombia at the end of November. His death serves as a chilling reminder of the risks associated with meeting strangers online and highlights the need for heightened caution.

Xiong’s fate took a devastating turn after he connected with a woman through an online dating platform and arranged to meet her for a date. Little did he know that this encounter would lead to his abduction and untimely demise. A group of men kidnapped Xiong, subjecting him to a brutal attack that claimed his life. He was fatally stabbed over a dozen times, leaving behind a grieving family and shocked community.