A massive group of hikers were robbed in Medellin.

How to stay safe

By Kaveh Paymayesh

In the midst of a popular trail, a group of some 15 hikers were intercepted and confronted in the outskirts of Medellin. The outcome was a mass robbery.

What happened?

Occurring on the 27th February 2022:

According to various sources, a large group consisting of some 15 hikers were trailing an ecological route before being ‘politely’ held up with guns and knives.

the robbery occurred in a popular eco-hike known as Piedra Galán
The event transpired in a popular eco-trail known as Sendero de la Palma (Google Maps)

At the end of the indigenous trail, Vereda de Palma, hikers can enjoy a spectacular view that overlooks the valley, 2,597m above sea level. This spot, Piedra Galana, is well-loved for its ecological & historical value.

This trail is on the western fringe of the valley, on the same side as Comuna 13.

Unfortunately, on the 27th of Feb, this popular spot was the scene of a mass robbery. As a large group of hikers ascended the trail, they were ‘politely’ intercepted and subdued by a group of 3 delinquents, uniformly dressed in all black. They were then ordered to sit down before being individually threatened and robbed of their possessions.

According to a witness account, the tight path of the trail required them to walk in a single line before being ‘politely’ intercepted. Soon after, they were relinquished of all their possessions, which included phones, watches and backpacks.

The information provided from sources varies; it is unconfirmed whether the entirety of the group was robbed or if some made it through unscathed. Likewise, we still don’t know how many individuals were actually involved in the hike.

According to various sources though, this number may be close to 100. Regardless, it is a harrowing event.

Even more distressing is that due to the seclusion of the area, the perpetrators had ample time to carry out the robbery.

UPDATE: According to Minuto 30 – there were 15 victims involved in the robbery, falling short of the 100 believed initially. They state that the hike was trailed by some 100 hikers, consisting of various groups of 10-15. It was the first two groups that were involved in the ordeal. 

It was thanks to the knee-jerk response of a guide, who threw their phone into a bush, that they could later inform the other groups doing the same route.

The mass robbery occurred in the western fringe of the city.
The western fringe of the valley is predominated by old ecological reserves (Shutterstock / Alexandre Laprise)

No casualties reported

Fortunately, there was no reported casualty. By relinquishing the goods without resistance, all victims were able to avert physical violence. 

Regardless, the 3 armed men managed to flee the scene having amassed a fortune in stolen possessions.

UPDATE: According to Minuto 30 – Two of the three perpetrators have been identified and apprehended by the authorities. 

While robberies of this type (in secluded trails) are not an unusual occurrence in Colombia, there has never been a recorded case of this scale in the Aburrá Valley.

This isn't the first robbery of its kind

This is not the first of its kind:

Again, whilst these events are no irregularity, they are not as common as we may fear. The vast majority of those that traverse these quiet areas have never had issues.

Of course, in Colombia, it is a possibility though. You should be aware and prepared as to not let this catch you off guard.

Should you worry? /how to stay safe

Medellin is surrounded by a number of beautiful and rich ecological reserves. Whilst this event is acutely distressing, it will not deter me from continuing to enjoy the many different hikes available throughout the valley. It is, however, important to be aware of the risks so that you can make an informed decision.

I think of it as akin to paragliding. Whilst there are risks involved, for many individuals, it’s worth it. Some of the great things in life are shrouded in risk. Does that make them worth it? It’s up to you, the individual…

In any case, knowledge is power.

How to stay safe: 

Read here for a more comprehensive guide on how to prepare yourself in the case of a robbery.

I believe that whilst Medellin is a recommendable place, there are caveats. You should always prepare yourself for the possibility of being a victim of crime. This means you should NEVER carry what you’re not willing to give up.

As shown in this particular incident, those that are compliant with the robbers endure no physical harm or loss of life.

Conversely, those that do resist are often killed. This is tragically avoidable. Walking the streets, let alone quiet trails of Medellin with possessions you’re not prepared to relinquish is very dangerous.

If you come to peace with the prospect of losing what’s in your pockets, it should mitigate your fear of being physically harmed. Data strongly indicates that you’ll avoid physical harm in doing so.

Of course, either outcome is suboptimal. Nobody should be able to steal your possessions but such is the state of affairs in South America.

If you ever are a victim then make sure to denounce the crime to authorities.

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