The neighborhoods have also become popular with sex workers who walk the streets in search of international clients. Sex work is legal in Colombia if it involves consenting adults. But Colombian laws enable local governments to ban this activity temporarily from some parts of the city, if it is deemed a threat to public order.
The prostitution ban comes just days after an American man was found in a hotel room with two local girls aged 12 and 13, in a case widely covered by the local press. The year-old was held in police custody for 12 hours, then released while officials investigated the case. Local press reported that he left Colombia and went to Florida. Sex work has grown as the city of three million people becomes increasingly popular with tourists, who head there for its balmy weather, affordable prices and festive atmosphere.
The alert said criminals were using dating apps to lure visitors to hotels, restaurants and bars where they were drugged, kidnapped or robbed.
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies. Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in. Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.
Not now Yes please. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US. I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy. More about Sex workers Colombia Prostitution. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments.
