Fear grips Soledad, Colombia as shops close after threats circulate

Fear kept some neighborhood stores shuttered in Soledad, Colombia, on Saturday, despite official calls for calm and increased security. Merchants chose not to open their doors, citing fear of retaliation after threatening pamphlets attributed to criminal groups circulated via WhatsApp. The messages pressured businesses to suspend activities for the day. While authorities investigate the pamphlets' authenticity and origin, the intimidation had a visible effect, with some owners opting to keep their shops closed rather than risk reprisal. One auto parts dealer, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated it was best "not to play with fire" and to avoid "bringing trouble upon oneself." He explained that for small business owners, whose shops are often part of their homes, any threat feels like a direct risk to their families. "There is fear in the streets. It's not easy to work like this. The police arrive for a while, take photos on the corners, and then leave," he said, expressing concern over the financial losses incurred by keeping his shop closed. The situation does not mean all commerce has halted, with many businesses remaining open in both Soledad and Barranquilla. However, the closed shutters of some neighborhood stores highlight the prevailing uncertainty.