Medellín, Colombia – Interpol has officially opened its first-ever headquarters in a non-capital city, establishing a permanent base of operations in Medellín, Colombia. The new facility, located in the Guayabal district, will serve as a central hub for combating transnational crime, with a particular focus on human trafficking and drug trafficking.
The decision to establish a permanent Interpol presence in Medellín comes after a successful year of joint operations between local authorities and international agencies. In 2024 alone, 24 arrests were made in the city as a result of these collaborative efforts.
The Interpol team in Medellín will initially consist of eight investigators, with plans to expand in the coming year. These investigators will have access to 19 global databases, enabling them to more effectively track down high-level criminals who have sought refuge in Colombia.
Targeting Criminal Networks
In recent years, Medellín has become a haven for international criminals, including drug lords from Mexico, Canada, and Israel. Organizations like Corpades have attributed this trend to the city's growing tourism industry, which has provided criminals with opportunities to establish lavish hideouts in the Valle de Aburrá and Oriente Antioqueño regions.
"The arrival of Interpol in Medellín signals the end of the party for criminals who believe this city is a safe haven," said Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez. "We have already captured 24 criminals who were wanted by Interpol, including Germans, Italians, and Mexicans."
A Significant Milestone
The opening of the Interpol headquarters in Medellín marks a significant milestone in the global fight against transnational crime. General Nicolás Zapata, the sub-director of the Colombian National Police, described the new facility as a "landmark for the continent."
"We have identified at least 170 invisible drug lords operating in Colombia," said General Zapata. "While we have already captured some of these individuals, we are actively pursuing the remaining fugitives."
With its strategic location and access to extensive global intelligence networks, the Interpol headquarters in Medellín is expected to play a crucial role in disrupting the operations of transnational criminal organizations and bringing their leaders to justice.
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