Extortion in Colombia increased by 182.9% in eight years: a national policy is proposed to combat this crime

Extortion cases in Colombia rose by 182.9% between 2016 and 2024, climbing from approximately 4,900 reported incidents to 13,869. Data released by the Asociación Colombiana de Ciudades Capitales (Asocapitales) and the Departamento Nacional de Planeación (DNP) indicates that the surge is even more pronounced in capital cities, which experienced a 201.5% increase during the same eight-year timeframe.

In response to these figures, authorities are proposing the implementation of a national policy specifically designed to combat extortion. The findings highlight a significant escalation in criminal activity, prompting a call for coordinated government action to address the rising trend across the country.