Nurse Dies After Cosmetic Procedure at 'Garage Clinic' in Cauca

A nurse has died in Puerto Tejada, Cauca, Colombia, following a cosmetic procedure performed at what is being described as a "garage clinic." The victim, Nayeli Larrahondo, worked as a nursing assistant at a public hospital in Cali and reportedly had family ties to officials in Puerto Tejada.

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The municipal administration of Puerto Tejada and the Health Secretariat deeply regret the death of citizen Nayeli Larrahondo, which occurred on Friday, June 5, 2026, presumably after a cosmetic procedure.

Larrahondo suffered cardiac arrest after the procedure, an incident that has drawn parallels to the death of Yulixa Toloza and underscores a disturbing trend of fatalities linked to cosmetic surgeries in Cali. Reports indicate that over 70 deaths have occurred in Cali over the past decade due to such procedures.

The municipal health secretary of Puerto Tejada expressed deep regret over Larrahondo's death and has formally requested the Attorney General's Office and other competent bodies to conduct a prompt, rigorous, and transparent investigation. The goal is to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine any potential responsibilities.

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We therefore request the Attorney General's Office, competent bodies, and the departmental Health Secretariat of Cauca to conduct investigations with promptness, rigor, and transparency, in order to establish the circumstances of this case and determine the responsibilities that may apply.

Authorities are investigating claims that a nurse may have performed the procedure. No arrests have been made yet. In response to the incident, health officials are strongly advising the public to verify the authorizations and licenses of any professionals and centers before seeking medical attention. They emphasize that information and prevention are crucial for protecting health and life.

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Bearing the above in mind, we invite citizens to verify that the professionals and centers where they receive care have the authorizations and habilitations required by current regulations. Information and prevention are fundamental to protecting health and life.