Online dating has become an increasingly popular way for people to meet potential partners, with the convenience and accessibility of dating apps making it easier than ever to connect with others. However, recent events in Colombia have highlighted the potential dangers of using dating apps while traveling abroad, particularly for American tourists. A series of mysterious deaths involving American men in Medellin has been linked to these dating apps, raising concerns about the safety of online dating in foreign countries.
One tragic story is that of Tou Ger Xiong, a Hmong-American community activist and comedian from Minnesota, who was found dead in a remote area of Medellin. Prior to his death, Tou Ger had been in regular communication with a woman he met online. However, when he called his brother and asked for $2,000, he didn’t disclose the reason for the request. It was later revealed that he had been kidnapped and held at gunpoint for ransom. This devastating incident is just one of eight similar deaths involving Americans in Medellin in November and December.
The U.S. Embassy in Colombia has issued a warning about the risks of using dating apps in the country, specifically mentioning the cases of these eight victims. While it is not confirmed whether all the victims initially met their assailants through dating apps, there is evidence of a gang in Medellin that had previously used dating apps to target and abduct foreigners. This raises concerns about the safety of using these apps, as criminals may be using them as a means to isolate and harm unsuspecting individuals.
The spike in violent killings of foreigners in Medellin, including at least 12 Americans, has alarmed both local authorities and the international community. The city’s tourism observatory has reported a 40% increase in violent killings of foreigners compared to the previous year, with many cases still under investigation. Criminals in the city are known to drug tourists with substances like scopolamine, also known as “Devil’s Breath,” which sedates victims and leaves them vulnerable to robbery, assault, and even death.
While the majority of victims last year were men, the motive behind these crimes is not limited to prostitution. Prostitution is legal in Colombia and prevalent in popular tourist areas like Medellin, but there is no evidence to suggest that the victims were engaging in such activities. Instead, it is believed that criminals are targeting tourists for various reasons, including robbery and extortion.
The U.S. Embassy has advised American citizens to exercise caution and take certain precautions when using dating apps in Medellin. They recommend avoiding private locations like hotels for dates and informing friends, family, or building staff about the details of their encounters. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of not resisting robbery attempts, as it can escalate the situation and put individuals at greater risk of harm.
Local authorities in Medellin are also taking steps to address the issue. Mayor Federico Gutierrez has directed the police to crack down on the sex trafficking of minors, which he believes is a underlying issue contributing to the rise in violence against foreigners. Special interventions are being planned in neighborhoods with high tourist activity, such as the renowned nightlife area of El Poblado.
The rising number of foreigners visiting Medellin, with over 1.4 million tourists in 2022, has contributed to its appeal as a top destination for remote workers. However, the recent incidents have cast a shadow on the city’s reputation. Mayor Gutierrez has expressed his desire for more foreigners to visit, but emphasizes that those coming solely for sex and drugs are not welcome. It is clear that the city is grappling with the complex challenge of balancing its tourist industry with the need to ensure the safety and well-being of visitors.
In conclusion, the series of deaths linked to dating apps in Medellin serve as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers faced by American tourists when using these platforms while traveling abroad. The U.S. Embassy’s warning, along with the local authorities’ efforts to address the underlying issues, highlight the need for caution and vigilance when engaging in online dating in unfamiliar environments. By taking necessary precautions and being aware of the risks, individuals can better protect themselves and reduce the likelihood of falling victim to such tragic incidents.
