Protesters in Colombia have resorted to using children as shields during confrontations with police. Disturbing scenes unfolded in Bogota as protesters picked up young children and advanced towards police lines amidst violent clashes.
The protesters were observed pulling children towards the front line as riot police approached during the demonstration. Amid the chaos, one small child clung to an adult while objects were hurled back and forth during the confrontation.
Additionally, other children were either pushed or guided forward as protesters engaged with Colombia’s public order unit. Some youngsters ran in fear after being removed from the frontline of the disorder.
The clashes erupted when protesters, including members of Colombia’s indigenous Emberá group, obstructed access to the Interior Ministry, leading to the alleged confinement of over 1,200 public officials for an extended period.
Interior Minister Armando Benedetti characterized the situation as highly critical, denouncing the confinement of ministry workers as a form of “kidnapping.”
Subsequently, riot police were deployed to disperse the demonstrators and facilitate the safe exit of the workers. Tear gas was utilized to create evacuation routes as protesters threw objects at the officers. The presence of children necessitated special procedures by the police to prevent harm to minors.
President Gustavo Petro of Colombia condemned the incidents after videos of the protests circulated, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of children in society.
Following the protests, an ambulance was dispatched to attend to an injured adult, according to Bogota officials. The demonstration was linked to grievances raised by Indigenous communities regarding perceived government shortcomings in areas such as resettlement, food aid, and community support.
Authorities reported that one Emberá child was affected during the intervention and received medical care.
Protest groups have maintained a presence in Bogota for several weeks, seeking answers on various issues concerning children, adolescents, humanitarian aid, and assurances for returning to their territories.
Gustavo Quintero, Bogota’s government secretary, highlighted the need for caution during the operation due to the presence of vulnerable individuals. He noted that minors appeared to have been used as protective barriers, impacting the authorities’ response. The Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) lodged a complaint over the alleged exploitation of children during the protest.
ICBF director Astrid Caceres expressed dismay over the footage, stating there was no justification for such actions. The agency offered shelter, food, and accommodations for the children while allowing the adults to continue protesting, although the offer was declined. The Attorney General’s Office and the ICBF collaborated to safeguard the rights of the children present.