A Minnesota artist and activist, Tou Ger Xiong, was tragically killed in Colombia, prompting the US State Department to issue a warning for American travelers. The warning advised against using dating apps while in Colombia due to multiple “suspicious deaths” of US citizens in the country. The advisory also labeled Colombia as a country with high crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping risks, with certain areas being designated as “Do not travel.”
The State Department’s advisory highlighted “eight suspicious deaths of private US citizens” in Medellin, Colombia between November 1 and December 31, 2023. These deaths were believed to be forced overdoses or suspected homicides, with some incidents involving the use of online dating applications. The US embassy in Colombia reported a rise in incidents involving dating apps as a lure over the past year.
In a devastating example, Tou Ger Xiong, a Minnesota comedian, was kidnapped and held for ransom after arranging to meet a woman he met online. He was subsequently found dead. The advisory also warned about criminals using dating apps to lure victims to public places before assaulting and robbing them, with incidents often going underreported.
As a result, the advisory urged individuals to only meet through dating apps in public places and to avoid isolated locations. It also recommended sharing details of plans with a friend or family member. In the last trimester of 2023, Colombia witnessed a 200% increase in thefts against foreign visitors and a 29% increase in violent deaths, with the majority of violent death victims being US citizens.
The incidents in Colombia serve as a chilling reminder of the potential dangers of using dating apps while traveling abroad. The State Department’s warning underscores the importance of exercising caution and vigilance, particularly when engaging in online interactions in unfamiliar settings.