The U.S. Embassy in Bogota announced it will close early and operate with reduced staff on October 17 due to large-scale protests and transportation disruptions expected in the city. Routine consular services will not be available after 1:00 p.m. on that day.
The embassy stated, "The U.S. Embassy will be operating with reduced staffing and will not be providing routine consular services after 1:00 p.m. tomorrow, October 17, due to large demonstrations and transportation disruptions around Bogota, including near the U.S. Embassy. The protests may last into the evening hours. U.S. citizens should avoid large protests as they have the potential to turn violent."
Officials said they would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary.
The embassy advised U.S. citizens in Bogota to avoid crowds and protests, remain aware of their surroundings, keep a low profile by wearing little jewelry and carrying few valuables, avoid using cell phones in public, not physically resist robbery attempts, keep car doors locked with windows rolled up, and follow local news for updates.
Contact information for the U.S. Embassy in Bogota and the U.S. Consular Agency in Barranquilla was provided for those seeking assistance. The embassy also encouraged U.S. citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program for security updates and to follow its social media channels for further information.