Santa Marta, a popular tourist destination on Colombia's Caribbean coast, was brought to a standstill for over 48 hours due to violence unleashed by a paramilitary group. The unrest, which disrupted daily life and tourism, led to the imposition of a strict security presence in the area. The paramilitary group, known for its ties to far-right ideologies, reportedly carried out attacks that caused significant fear among residents and visitors. Reports indicated that the group was involved in acts of intimidation and violence, prompting local authorities to take swift action to restore order. In response to the escalating situation, Abelardo de la Espriella, the far-right president of Colombia, issued orders to militarize Santa Marta. This decision involved the deployment of military forces to the city, aimed at securing the area and protecting civilians from further threats. The move underscored the government's commitment to addressing the security concerns raised by the paramilitary activities. The militarization of Santa Marta has drawn mixed reactions from the public and international observers. While some support the government's actions as necessary to ensure safety, others express concern about the potential for increased tension and the impact on the city's reputation as a tourist hub. The situation remains under close watch as authorities work to stabilize the region and address the root causes of the violence.