TalCual |

The Colombian Ombudsman's Office rejected the armed attack against activist Yendri Velásquez, who is seeking asylum in that country after going into exile in September 2024, and political analyst Luis Peche Arteaga.

Colombian police reported on Monday afternoon, the 13th, that Venezuelan activists Yendri Velásquez and Luis Peche were attacked by gunmen after leaving their residence in Bogotá.

According to a police report, both were approached by two men who opened fire. Peche, who works as a political consultant, and Velásquez, a human rights defender, were taken to Reina Sofía Hospital where they were stabilized after being shot several times.

However, Velásquez was admitted for surgery, according to the Colombian police report. Luis Peche is a political analyst, and Velásquez has been a member of Amnesty International.

The Colombian police managed to detain the vehicle used in the crime, but the individuals involved managed to escape.

The Colombian Ombudsman's Office rejected the attack against Velásquez, who is seeking asylum in that country after going into exile in September 2024, after having been detained and forcibly disappeared on August 3, 2024, while attempting to travel to a session of the UN Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination.

The Venezuelan people deserve to live in peace and democracy. While in Colombian territory, migrants and refugees must have the support and accompaniment of the authorities, guaranteeing their rights. We urge the Attorney General's Office to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation to clarify the facts and adopt urgent protective measures for the victims, the Ombudsman's Office emphasized in its statement. account in X .

Likewise, the Colombian institution rejected any form of violence, stigmatization, or discrimination against people seeking refuge and asylum in the country. We will continue working to ensure respect for the right to migrate and to promote and guarantee the rights of all migrants and refugees seeking a safe place to rebuild their lives in Colombia.