Bogotá's Hidden Drug Labs: A 113% Surge in Production

Bogotá's Residential Drug Labs: A Growing Threat Bogotá, Colombia – June 8, 2025 – A surge in drug production within the residential areas of Bogotá has prompted a major police response. Authorities have reported a 113% increase in drug seizures compared to the same period last year, totaling over 4.8 tons of narcotics. This alarming trend is attributed to the proliferation of clandestine drug laboratories operating within homes and apartments. "The data itself is shocking," stated a news reporter from Noticias Caracol, "but the 113% increase compared to last year is even more alarming." Police operations have uncovered two such labs, one in Puente Aranda and another in Ciudad Bolívar, leading to the arrest of nearly 2,890 individuals. These labs, often disguised as ordinary residences, produce a range of substances, including cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and synthetic drugs like Tuci. Colonel Miguel Camelo, Bogotá's Police Subcommander, emphasized the challenges posed by the constant movement of individuals in and out of these seemingly innocuous locations. He stated that many of these locations are rented apartments. A toxicology expert, Yhon Carlos Ángel, shed light on the composition of these synthetic drugs, explaining that they often contain a mix of amphetamines, opioids, sedatives, and colorants. The report also highlighted the locations with the highest number of drug seizures: Kennedy, Ciudad Bolívar, Engativá, and Santa Fe. Despite the challenges, the ongoing police operations are making significant strides in combating this growing threat to Bogotá's communities.