If we want to effectively address the problem of insecurity in Bucaramanga, we must go beyond partial solutions and punitive measures, recognize that we are facing a transversal problem and, finally, call on the different social forces to work together.
Amid growing concern about security in Bucaramanga, the new mayor, Jaime Andrés Beltrán, has promised radical changes and forceful actions to stop the hitherto unstoppable increase in crime in the city, which continues its march, despite the efforts of the president and his heavy-handed announcements, as demonstrated by the figures and citizen perception that continue to indicate that the phenomenon not only persists, but is intensifying.
It is undeniable that the security panorama in Bucaramanga is discouraging. Micro-trafficking, contract killings, theft, robbery, sexual harassment and petty crimes plague the streets and generate a climate of palpable insecurity. The feeling of vulnerability has taken root in the community, affecting not only the quality of life of citizens, but also the image and development of the city.
Faced with this reality, it is understandable that the municipal administration seeks urgent solutions, however, the strategy of increasing prohibitions and restrictions, such as the reduction in rumba time, the curfew for minors and the restricted circulation of motorcycles at night , do not really provide a comprehensive solution to the problem of crime. These measures produce a sensation of immediate action against crime, but their real effectiveness is questionable.
By focusing solely on controlling certain behaviors, these actions overlook the true causes and complexities of insecurity in Bucaramanga. Microtrafficking, for example, is not eradicated simply by restricting the hours of the rumba, and hitmen will not disappear with a curfew for minors. It is essential to recognize that crime occurs due to a multiplicity of social, economic and cultural factors, including the lack of job opportunities, inequality, marginality, the absence of inclusion and prevention policies, which, among many others, are causes underlying causes that fuel the problem of insecurity in the city.
Therefore, before continuing to implement temporary measures, it is necessary for the municipal administration to work on the best way to comprehensively address the structural causes of crime in Bucaramanga, which implies designing strategies that not only focus on the repression of crime, but also in prevention, rehabilitation and social inclusion, that is, it is necessary to invest in education, employment and community development programs that offer real opportunities to young people and vulnerable groups, keeping them away from the temptation of crime.
Greater coordination is also required between local authorities, the Police, educational institutions, community organizations and civil society to design and implement comprehensive citizen security policies. In conclusion, if we want to effectively address the problem of insecurity in Bucaramanga, we must go beyond partial solutions and punitive measures, recognize that we are facing a transversal problem and, finally, call on the different social forces to work together. a group that, in addition to identifying and addressing the root causes of crime, can define the best alternatives to neutralize and dismantle it.
