Colombia expels 80 Venezuelans without court convictions

Colombian authorities have initiated the expulsion of 80 Venezuelan citizens labelled as criminal elements, even though none of the individuals have been formally convicted by Colombian courts. The deportations underscore mounting pressure on the Bogotá government to address security concerns linked to Venezuelan migration into the country. Officials have justified the removals on grounds of public safety, though the lack of judicial convictions raises questions about the legal basis for the expulsions. Venezuela's migration crisis has sent millions fleeing the country over recent years, with neighbouring nations including Colombia bearing the brunt of the displaced population. The expulsion order reflects hardening attitudes toward Venezuelan migrants amid concerns about organised crime and street-level criminal activity in major Colombian cities. Regional governments have increasingly called for coordinated approaches to manage the migration influx, balancing humanitarian obligations with domestic security interests. The move comes as Colombia grapples with gang violence and drug trafficking organisations that have allegedly recruited Venezuelan nationals into their operations.