72 children reported missing amid Colombia soccer squad’s homecoming celebration

(Photo: Twitter Bogota Humana)

Around 72 children were reported missing during the Colombian soccer squad’s homecoming celebrations in Bogota on Sunday, according to the National Police director. 

Tens of thousands of Colombians took to the streets of Bogota to catch a glimpse of their national soccer squad on Sunday as the World Cup delegation arrived home for an honorary tour of the capital.

Amid the chaos, 72 children were separated from their families in central Bogota’s Simon Bolivar Park, where more than 100,000 people gathered for the culmination of the tour, according to Colombia’s El Espectador newspaper.

MORE: Colombia gives soccer squad overwhelming welcome in Bogota

The children were looked after at a police tent, set up in the park especially for the event, while they waited for their parents to collect them, according to El Espectador.

MORE: In spite of World Cup defeat against Brazil, Colombia finds reason to celebrate

In the lead up to the event, Bogota authorities advised against pregnant women and children below the age of five attending the celebration in Simon Bolivar Park for safety concerns, reported El Espectador.

MORE: Colombia loses 1-2 to Brazil, ending historic World Cup run in thrilling quarterfinal

Sources

Related posts

US claims it financed Colombia’s purchase of Israeli spyware

Former presidents of Colombia’s congress formally accused of corruption

Former president maintains control over Colombia’s Liberal Party