AMERICA/COLOMBIA - "Cali is suffering a pandemic of violence", denounces Mgr. Monsalve Mejía

Thursday, 6 November 2014

Cali (Agenzia Fides) - "Cali is suffering a pandemic of violence", denounced the Archbishop of Cali, His Exc. Mgr. Dario de Jesus Monsalve Mejia, with regards to the alarming increase in homicides in the region. The police report states that in Cali in 2014 so far 1,229 people have died due to weapons (firearms or knives), of whom 155 are minors (147 males and 8 females).
The note sent to Agenzia Fides, reports the Archbishop’s appeal to the government so that it responds with urgency and determination, "without looking for excuses". "More drastic measures have to be taken that lead to a disarmament of citizens or prohibit, under threat of harsh sanctions, the fact of carrying arms", said the Archbishop.
The Archbishop of Cali pointed out that the population stays locked up at home for fear of violence, and has asked the State to involve the people more, urging them not to remain indifferent to these criminal acts. Mgr. Monsalve Mejia also emphasized that the Church continues its pastoral support for victims, and urged the community to continue to support those who suffer with prayer and solidarity.
In Colombia, the same violent situation is experienced in other regions. A few days ago, His Exc. Mgr. Julio Hernando García Peláez, Bishop of Istmina-Tadó, denounced threats against the indigenous population of the region of Chocó. Some situations are related to the past, and there has been no change, despite promises made (see Fides 11/07/2014). (CE) (Agenzia Fides 06/11/2014)


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