The murder rate is down 26.5% in Pereira in 2010, making it the Colombian city with the highest decline in homicides, according to the mayor.
Data provided by the local police indicates that there have been 69 fewer cases of murder so far in 2010, compared to the same period in 2009.
“Homicides have had a high impact on Pereira, but it has been declining due to the joint efforts of the mayor, state security agencies and the cooperation of the civilians, allowing us to be the city with the highest decrease in homicide in the whole of Colombia,” mayor Israel Londoño said.
Londoño also confirmed that Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos is expected to visit the municipality next week and will present a national security program by the Interior and Justice Ministry and the Defense Ministry.