Colombia blocks entry of 18 foreigners over alleged child sexual exploitation in 2026
The National Police intensifies controls in tourist and digital environments to protect minors from commercial sexual exploitation.
Colombian police strengthen action against child sexual exploitation in tourist areas
Approximately 18 foreigners were denied entry to Colombia during 2026 for allegedly intending to carry out sexual exploitation activities, according to information from policia.gov.co. The measure is part of a set of coordinated actions between the National Police, the Public Prosecutor's Office, the ICBF and Migration Colombia to combat commercial sexual exploitation of children and adolescents (ESCNNA).
Each 23 September marks International Day Against ESCNNA, a date aimed at raising awareness about a problem that violates the rights, dignity and integrity of minors. Commercial sexual exploitation encompasses conduct in which a person under 18 years of age is used for sexual purposes in exchange for some form of economic or other benefit.
Controls in hotels, establishments and digital platforms
The National Police, through its specialities in Protection of Children and Adolescents and Protection of Tourism and National Heritage, deploy controls in public establishments, hotels and other spaces where risk situations may arise. Operations also include surveillance of digital platforms, where this type of conduct has expanded in recent years.
Among the active strategies is the "Eyes Everywhere" initiative, which seeks to involve citizens and tourism service providers in the prevention of ESCNNA. The institution also promotes compliance with legal obligations established for those who are part of the tourism sector, in order to prevent these spaces from being used to violate the rights of minors.
Joint operations and investigation
Actions also have an investigative component. The National Police has participated in operations coordinated with the Public Prosecutor's Office, the ICBF and Migration Colombia that have made it possible to identify structures and individuals involved in conduct related to commercial sexual exploitation of minors.
Awareness-raising activities aimed at tourists, traders, students and communities complement the operational work, with the aim of enabling these groups to recognise risk situations and not normalise behaviours that harm minors.
Reporting lines available
Members of the public can report risk situations or emergencies through the National Police line 123. The ICBF line 141 is available for guidance and protection regarding situations affecting the rights of children and adolescents.
The National Police emphasises that commercial sexual exploitation of minors is not a form of tourism.
Source: Google News CO — Crime