Cartagena police accused of excessive force during electricity protest

Community organizations in Cartagena, Colombia, have publicly denounced the Metropolitan Police for allegedly using disproportionate force during a protest demanding the restoration of electricity service. The Colectivo Comunitario Antirracista Contexto and Corporación Justicia y Democracia claim that a public space recovery operation in the Los Calamares neighborhood devolved into a "hostile and disproportionate operation."

According to the groups, the police intervention involved alleged pushing, beatings, the use of tasers on subdued individuals, violent immobilizations, neck pressure, threats, and humiliating treatment. They state that between eight and ten people were affected during the incident.

A central figure in the complaint is Carlos Arturo Ovalle, described as an artist, cultural manager, and community leader. The organizations allege that Ovalle was beaten by officers even after he was subdued. They also claim he was threatened and subjected to photographic documentation and accusations intended to falsely link him to criminal activities.

The complaint further suggests a pattern of profiling against Ovalle, citing alleged surveillance and targeting in 2016, 2020, 2024, and 2026. The groups view this as evidence of persecution tied to his community work and advocacy for social causes.

Additionally, the complaint calls for an investigation into the actions of Kevin Zalsa, an official from Cartagena's Interior Secretariat. It is alleged that Zalsa made stigmatizing remarks, calling Ovalle a "delinquent" and stating he "deserved" what happened, even after Ovalle was handcuffed at a police station. The organizations are also seeking an investigation into Sub-lieutenant Ricardo Herrera Trujillo, identified by police code 002144, for his alleged conduct during the operation.