Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella announces immigration crackdown

Colombia's new far-right president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has ordered a crackdown on immigrants, directing authorities to detain and deport those in the country irregularly or with criminal records. The announcement, made just over two weeks into his presidency, echoes the immigration policies of allies like former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The millionaire former lawyer's directive comes as the nation continues to reel from a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake on August 10. The seismic event claimed over 300 lives and devastated more than 30,000 homes, leaving many citizens displaced and in need of assistance.

De la Espriella's focus on immigration enforcement, even amid the earthquake's aftermath, signals a key priority for his administration. Operations to track down undocumented immigrants are expected to begin this week, highlighting a firm stance on border control and national security.