Thanks to the essential Otto Rock, who is always tuned into community issues, I learned about the current situation in Puerto Gaitan.
After several days of protests at the Pacific Rubiales offices in Puerto Gaitan, Meta, a group of around 60 indigenous individuals entered and occupied the multinational’s premises. The members of the Vencedor-Pirirí community arrived armed with clubs and bows to demand that Pacific uphold its commitments, including the maintenance of the Puerto Gaitan-Rubiales road, educational facilities, and healthcare centers. Tensions escalated in the morning regarding the safety of Pacific employees, prompting police intervention.
A police officer reported that some workers were briefly held until law enforcement arrived. The host later noted that several vehicles were set ablaze during the protest.
In related news, a friend in Bogotá mentioned that Pacific has removed its name from its headquarters building, and I’ve heard indirectly that signage at the oilfields is being changed to exclude Pacific’s branding. If anyone could provide a photo of either of these changes, I would greatly appreciate it. I would be happy to share it here with or without credit, depending on your preference.