Invasion of lots and felling of 2,000 trees reported in Chipichape

In Cali's Chipichape neighborhood, a new invasion of lots 10 and 12 has been reported, along with the cutting of about 2,000 trees, raising concerns over environmental damage. Anonymous sources alerted the owners, who saw fencing work and earth-moving despite ongoing legal processes. Local authorities have inspected the sites but state they cannot evict without a court order.

On February 17, 2026, in the upper part of Chipichape, Cali, the illegal occupation of lots 10 and 12 was reported. According to anonymous testimonies gathered by Diario Occidente, activities started on lot 10, where workers installed wires, pruned trees, and used machinery to level the ground. Soon after, the actions spread to lot 12, encroaching on public spaces like roads and parks.

One source, who requested anonymity due to fear of reprisals, noted that a judicial process is ongoing for lot 10, yet interventions persist. The felling of about 2,000 trees in the area is a major concern, as it could worsen issues during the rainy season, per the complainant.

The complaint was filed on February 9, but official verification only took place on the 17th. Local property representatives criticized the police for lacking timely response. Cali's Secretariat of Security and Justice stated they learned of the case through the police and joined an inspection: in one lot, they found people claiming ownership and showing an ongoing lawsuit, making it a private dispute; the other was empty.

Authorities clarified that police cannot evict without a court order and that owners must report invasions within the first 48 hours for immediate protection. They urged reporting to 3168276416 or control.invasiones@gmail.com. A report in El Tiempo from last week links land disputes in Cali to drug trafficking mafias controlling over 20,000 hectares, illegally selling lots and employing violence, including the murder of two lawyers last year in territorial lawsuits.

The team for invasion control and ecosystem protection handles such cases per regulations.

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