Extortion Crisis Grips Soledad and Barranquilla as Gangs battle for Control
Businesses and residents in Soledad and Barranquilla, Colombia, are facing a spiraling crisis as criminal gangs intensify their extortion activities, demanding protection money and instilling fear [1].The situation has become so dire that many businesses are forced to close, and citizens are demanding immediate action from local authorities.
Double Extortion: A Deadly Dilemma
Merchants and transport operators in Soledad find themselves trapped in a double bind.Not only are they forced to pay extortion to one gang, such as ‘the coastal’ or ‘Los Pepes’, but rival criminal groups are now demanding they cease payments to the original extortionists, effectively forcing them to pay twice or face violent consequences.
Did You Know? Extortion, at its core, involves creating fear in a victim to force compliance, frequently enough through threats of violence or harm [1].
This deadly dynamic was highlighted on June 19, 2025, when motorcycle hitmen killed two motorists. One of the victims, Carlos Augusto Durán marín, 37, was allegedly paying 40,000 pesos per month to a criminal organization for protection. Police suspect the double homicide resulted from a dispute between rival gangs vying for control of extortion rackets within the transporter guild.
Businesses Under Siege: Closures and Threats
The relentless pressure from multiple gangs has forced numerous businesses to shut down. In the Metropolitan Citadel, four stores on 54th Street (Boulevard of the Metropolitan Citadel) have been closed since last year after being targeted by several extortion groups.
Shopkeepers are caught between a rock and a hard place: refusing to pay one gang results in threats and attacks,while paying only invites the other gang to retaliate,demanding the money be redirected to them. This impossible situation has left business owners with no choice but to close their doors.
the Spread of Extortion: No One is Safe
Extortion is not limited to businesses; it affects transport companies, motorcycle drivers, and even homeowners. Reports indicate that in certain neighborhoods, residents are being charged “vaccines” based on the condition of their homes, creating a climate of fear and insecurity.
Numerous shootings targeting businesses have occurred, and owners, administrators, and bus drivers have been killed for refusing to pay extortion.On September 5, 2024, José Luis Chavez Ardila, 51, a driver for Cooasatlan, was murdered after the company refused to comply with extortion demands. While a suspect, alias ‘El Soldadito’, was captured and charged, the intellectual authors of the crime remain at large.
Pro Tip: Businesses can enhance security by installing surveillance systems and reporting all extortion attempts to the authorities, even if they feel threatened.
Adding to the climate of fear, a supermarket in the Villa Katanga neighborhood was attacked on April 2 when a man on a motorcycle shot at a soda fridge. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with this incident.
Barranquilla: A Mirror Image of Soledad’s Struggles
the situation in Barranquilla mirrors the crisis in Soledad. Merchants, particularly in areas like El Suroriente (including neighborhoods such as Chiquinquirá, San Roque, Rebolo, and Montes), are constantly targeted by extortionists. Many business owners opt to pay rather than risk becoming victims of attacks, highlighting the perceived ineffectiveness of the authorities.
Extortion cases have also been reported in the southwestern sectors of the city, indicating the widespread nature of this criminal activity.
Citizens Demand Action
Frustrated and fearful, citizens are demanding increased security measures and a more forceful response from the Metropolitan Police and the mayor of Soledad. They insist that extortion cannot be allowed to become normalized in their communities.
| date | Incident | Location |
|---|---|---|
| June 19, 2025 | Double homicide of motorists | Soledad |
| September 5, 2024 | Murder of bus driver José Luis Chavez Ardila | Soledad |
| April 2, 2025 | Shooting at a supermarket | Villa Katanga, Soledad |
| Ongoing | Closure of four stores due to extortion | Metropolitan Citadel, Soledad |
What steps should local authorities prioritize to combat extortion effectively? How can communities work together to resist these criminal activities?
Evergreen Insights: The Roots and Impact of Extortion
Extortion, often intertwined with organized crime, has deep historical roots across various regions. It thrives in environments where state authority is weak or corrupt, allowing criminal organizations to operate with impunity.The economic impact of extortion is notable, stifling business growth, discouraging investment, and eroding public trust in governance.Beyond the financial costs, extortion creates a climate of fear and insecurity, undermining social cohesion and hindering community growth.
The rise of sextortion, a blend of “sex” and “extortion,” highlights the evolving nature of these crimes, leveraging digital platforms to exploit victims [2]. Addressing extortion requires a multi-faceted approach, including strengthening law enforcement, promoting good governance, and fostering community resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Extortion
- What is the legal definition of extortion?
- Extortion involves obtaining something of value from another person through coercion, frequently enough involving threats of violence, damage to property, or exposure of damaging data [1].
- How can businesses protect themselves from extortion?
- Businesses can enhance security measures, such as installing surveillance systems, varying routines, and training employees to recognize and report suspicious activity. Building relationships with local law enforcement and participating in community safety initiatives can also provide added protection.
- What should I do if I am a victim of extortion?
- If you are being extorted, it is indeed crucial to report the incident to the police immediately. Avoid engaging with the extortionist, preserve any evidence (such as emails or messages), and seek support from trusted friends, family, or professional counselors.
- Are there international laws against extortion?
- Many countries have laws criminalizing extortion, and international cooperation is essential in combating transnational extortion networks. International treaties and agreements facilitate the sharing of information and the extradition of offenders.
- How does extortion differ from bribery?
- While both involve illicit payments, extortion involves coercion and threats, whereas bribery typically involves offering something of value to induce someone to act in a particular way. In extortion, the victim is unwillingly forced to make a payment, while in bribery, the payer seeks to gain an advantage.
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