Bogotá Woman Found Safe After Harrowing Ordeal Involving Suspected Kidnapping and Robbery
Diana Ospina, 47, has been safely recovered after a frightening incident that began Sunday night after she left Theatron nightclub in Bogotá’s Chapinero district, authorities confirmed Monday evening. The case, involving a suspected kidnapping and robbery, has sparked widespread concern about public safety in the Colombian capital.
Ospina was last seen leaving the nightclub and entering a taxi, according to reports. Shortly after, communication with her family was lost. The incident quickly escalated into a “paseo millonario” – a “millionaire ride” – where victims are coerced into withdrawing large sums of money from their bank accounts. Preliminary investigations reveal suspects accessed Ospina’s accounts, making unauthorized transactions totaling approximately 150 million pesos.
Found Near Choachí
Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán announced on social media Monday night that Ospina had been located. She arrived at the CAI Mirador police station around 9:30 p.m., where she was reunited with her family. She was found on the road connecting Bogotá with Choachí, approximately 5 kilometers from the city.
“The Police Metropolitan immediately transferred her to be reunited with her family,” Galán stated, adding that the investigation to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice is rapidly progressing. “They will soon be behind bars,” he said, referring to those responsible.
No Physical Harm Reported
According to sources close to Ospina, she did not sustain any physical injuries during the ordeal. Friends of the designer confirmed to local media that she appeared to be in good health upon her return, showing no signs of being harmed or under the influence of any substances. Enrique Arango, a friend of Ospina, told a local newspaper that she had no visible injuries.
New Video Evidence Emerges
New video footage has surfaced, reportedly showing Ospina arriving at her home before being intercepted by two individuals. The footage, obtained by local media, shows a taxi stopping in front of her residence, followed by another taxi pulling up behind it. Two men are then seen exiting the second vehicle and approaching Ospina’s taxi, entering through the rear doors.
Sources suggest the taxi driver may have been complicit in the abduction. The videos reportedly show Ospina being approached before she had a chance to exit the vehicle.
Investigation Underway, Nightclub Cooperating
Mayor Galán has assured the public that the investigation is a top priority. The Theatron nightclub, where Ospina was last seen, is cooperating with authorities, providing video footage to aid in the investigation. The case has amplified existing concerns about safety in Bogotá, particularly in entertainment districts like Chapinero.
The incident underscores the growing threat of “paseo millonario” scams in the city, prompting calls for increased security measures and vigilance among residents and visitors. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
