Valledupar Beefs up Security for Holiday Season
Valledupar, Colombia is gearing up for the holidays with a robust security plan designed to ensure a peaceful and joyous festive season for its residents. The initiative, spearheaded by the Valledupar Metropolitan Police and the Mayor’s office, will see increased police presence throughout the city until January 13th.
A force of over 700 officers is being deployed, ready to tackle both investigative and preventative tasks. These officers will be strategically stationed across key locations including commercial districts, banks, tourist hotspots, major roadways, and high-traffic areas.
"This group, which receives special training, will have the mission of guaranteeing security and public order through operations that require a high level of tactical training, rapid response capability, and the use of special force," said Valledupar Metropolitan Police chief, Colonel Alex Duran, outlining the specialized nature of the enhanced security team.
In addition to the increased police presence, the newly launched "Avispa Plan" will focus on strengthening road safety. Furthermore, authorities will conduct routine inspections in public spaces to prevent the sale of counterfeit or contaminated products. Mobile checkpoints will be established at strategic points throughout the city to enhance alertness and response times.
Reinforcing the police operation are 35 rapid response units, 30 private security personnel, 18 traffic units, and 25 members of the National Army. Firefighters, Civil Defense, the Red Cross, and Colombian Migration officials will also be involved in the operation.
Further bolstering security, 11 advanced action cameras have been strategically installed throughout the city. Equipped with facial recognition software and license plate readers, these cameras are designed to identify individuals and vehicles involved in suspicious activities, providing authorities with a powerful tool to monitor and respond effectively.
Valledupar Mayor Ernesto Orozco emphasized the city’s commitment to a safe and enjoyable holiday season for all. "Safety is a priority, and we will stop at nothing to protect our people," he asserted.
"We will work with all organizations so that this Christmas is synonymous with happiness and tranquility for everyone," the mayor added, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the holiday security plan.
