By Natalia Rueda 
The infamous Bogota gang involved in the ‘paseos millonarios’ (millionaire rides).
The mayor of Bogota reported that five key figures of the organized crime group known as “Los Zetas” were arrested in connection to a string of kidnappings and robberies in popular areas of Bogotá such as Chapinero, Modelia, and Teusaquillo. The group’s modus operandi? “Millionaire Rides”, a terrifying form of kidnapping where victims are drugged and manipulated into handing over their cash and valuables.
Through this form of robbery, the perpetrators drugged the victims with scopolamine to disorient and manipulate them into voluntarily emptying their bank accounts or handing over their valuables, holding them for hours to go to different stores or ATMs to make purchases or withdraw cash. The victims, largely incapacitated under the effects of the drug, were left stranded in remote locations. This terrifying method earned its name for leaving victims potentially penniless.
An integral part of the Zetas’ scheme were female accomplices who operated in Bogotá’s busiest night spots. Once they gained the trust of their victims, who were usually men between the ages of 25 and 35, they would drug them with scopolamine and psychiatric drugs, leaving them disoriented and easily controlled. They would then take them to various locations where members of the organization would beat them, threaten them and steal their belongings.
The Zetas’ reach is shocking, with an estimated total of 300 million pesos ($73,000) stolen from their victims. And while this recent arrest brings some relief, it also serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who frequent the city’s bars and clubs.
However, as with any organized crime group, the arrests of the five key figures do not guarantee the end of the Zetas’ operations. It is crucial for both tourists and locals to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, such as not accepting drinks or items from strangers, and always staying aware of their surroundings.