Bogotá adds police as violence hits nomad areas

Bogotá is sending 8,000 additional police officers into the city after a deadly knife attack in Santa Fe on April 18 left three people dead and several injured. Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán said the city needs more officers, better investigations and stronger technology, following an extraordinary security council meeting on April 20.

Which parts of the city are most exposed

Santa Fe, downtown Bogotá and Los Mártires have drawn the most concern for visitors and expats, with Santa Fe posting the city’s highest homicide rate at 54 killings per 100,000 residents. TransMilenio stations remain another weak spot, where pickpocketing and robberies are common and have accounted for a sizable share of city thefts.

Digital nomads, tourists and expats are more likely to run into petty theft than serious violence, but the risk rises in crowded transit areas, bars and late-night street settings. Bogotá is still workable for travelers who stick to safer neighborhoods and keep their guard up.

What travelers should do now

Keep phones, cameras and jewelry out of sight and hold bags in front of you on buses and in stations. Use licensed transport at night, stay with friends after dark and avoid accepting drinks from strangers in bars or clubs.

If you are booking a stay, look for 24/7 security and controlled entry. Some travelers also keep a spare phone for ride apps and daily use, then leave their main device secured at their accommodation. For more city-level context, see our visa updates and read our full Colombia guide for the complete picture.