Prosecutor investigates Barbosa mayor over alleged irregularities at January bull event

Colombia’s Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened a disciplinary investigation into Barbosa Mayor Marco Alirio Cortés Torres over alleged irregularities at a controversial corraleja held on January 1.

The event, which involved two bulls, prompted strong protests from animal-rights defenders and political figures including former House representative Cristian Avendaño and lawmaker Danovis Lozano.

According to the case led by the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office for Instruction in Vélez, the bull event may have taken place without meeting strict legal requirements. Investigators are examining whether organizers had all mandatory permits and documents, as well as comprehensive contractual and non-contractual civil-liability insurance to cover emergencies or accidents.

The investigation will determine whether the mayor and the organizers breached Articles 14 and 15 of Colombia’s Law 916 of 2004, which governs the National Bullfighting Regulations. The Public Prosecutor’s Office said opening the case represents an investigative stage, not a prior finding of disciplinary responsibility. Cortés Torres will have guarantees and an opportunity to mount his defense.

The office said the case forms part of strict institutional oversight of public animal spectacles in Colombia. Under the 2004 law, such events must meet extensive logistical and safety requirements intended to protect participants and spectators.

“

According to the disciplinary proceedings of the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office for Instruction in Vélez, the bull event allegedly did not have all the permits and documents necessary for its staging, nor comprehensive contractual and non-contractual civil-liability insurance covering the risks arising from the event.