The city of Cali continues to be affected by recurring clashes between young people, which have left several seriously injured in recent months. This problem, known as “guireo” or “chacaleo”, has become a dangerous activity in which children and adolescents from the east of the city Areas of the neighborhoods are disputed during the night, using different weapons such as knives, sticks and stones.
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In one of the most recent cases, several young people were injured in the midst of a violent confrontation. Area residents reported that these clashes They occur in public places, even near elderly people, who are forced to take shelter to avoid being hit by riots.
The authorities have expressed their concern, noting that Those involved are between 8 and 16 years old. Furthermore, they add that the situation is getting worse every day, since some young people are beginning to carry traumatic weapons.
Residents and community leaders have denounced this problem. “When these confrontations happen, people cannot move normally and have to lie on the ground” said Amanda Araradma, a resident of the sector.
The president of the Pizzmaos 3 Community Action Board, Israel Vidal, expressed his frustration at the lack of effective actions: “We are reluctant, because with the administration we have raised the issue several times and nothing has happened. The young people are tired.”
Wilson Parra, a resident of eastern Cali, also highlighted the need for support in cultural and social issues, as well as the implementation of projects that allow young people to occupy their time productively and get away from street violence.
The Secretary of Security and Justice of Cali, Jairo García, stated: “This life project involves finishing educational projects, school days, sports and culture.”
According to the Children and Adolescents Police, many of these young people lack a stable family nucleus and spend most of their time alone, which makes it easier for them to leave their homes at any time and participate in these violent activities.
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