The Colombian National Police marks its 134th anniversary, highlighting the commitment and heroism of its members in protecting citizens. In Cali, tributes are paid to exemplary officers and those who have given their lives in the line of duty. The institution emphasizes recent achievements in combating crime in the city.
Since its founding, the National Police has faced challenges in security and peaceful coexistence, building bridges of trust with the community. Over 134 years, it has left a mark on Colombian families through the selfless service of its men and women.
Inspiring stories illustrate this legacy. Patrolwoman Andreina Acosta, mother of a son with cerebral palsy affecting 95% of his body, starts her day at 3 a.m. to care for him before patrolling downtown Cali. She represents many Colombian families balancing duty and personal life.
Subintendent Catalina Isabel Carrascal, from the Dialogue and Order Maintenance Unit, visits nursing homes to restore hope to abandoned elderly through artistic activities. Subintendent Jorge Eduardo Caicedo Velasco trained a dog to alert about glucose level changes in a caregiver. Subintendent Edwin Antonio Vargas Serna, a world chess champion, teaches the game for free to children in the El Sucre neighborhood to keep them away from street dangers.
Subintendent Paula Andrea García Martínez, mother of a child with Down syndrome, views life with eyes of gratitude and seeks a more inclusive world. Subintendent Jonatan Bolaños travels roads with his street-rescued dog Hanny, organizing rides to collect pet food for abandoned animals.
Tributes are paid to the fallen, such as patrolman Fabián Andrés Ferreira, killed in September in eastern Cali while responding to a community call for help. His wife expressed the honor of having a police officer in the family, despite the pain.
In Cali, over 7,000 officers have captured 5,858 criminals, recovered 1,549 vehicles, seized 1,124 firearms, prevented 2,895 kilograms of narcotics, dismantled 42 criminal structures, and conducted 485 raids this year. These actions reaffirm their motto: God and Country.