Why is kidnapping such a particular problem in Colombia?

Question

Why is kidnapping such a particular problem in Colombia?

Answer 1

the reason for the kidnappings is because of the FARC and their need for money, control, power and drugs.

Answer 2

Columbia is ruled by warlords (read thugs) who control the economy, the cocaine trade, and terrrorize the people into submission.

The police are overwhelmed and under supported so they can not handle the scope of the problem.

Answer 3

Kidnapping is much less of a problem these days.  FARC was a major element in the problem, but the war has gone well for the government and FARC is reeling.  Common crime still accounts for some of the  kidnappings because Colombia is a poor country.  The war has created a breakdown in law and order, but again recent government success may stabilize the economy et al.

Answer 4

Not only in Colombia but in all latinamerican countries, kidnapping is a problem nowadays.    Latinamerican countries have a minority of very rich people and i guess it's a good way to get money for the kidnappers.

Answer 5

The drug-dealing, guerrilla association called FARC is the biggest reason why these type of events happen in colombia.

Answer 6

Colombia has gotten a bad reputation. The kidnapping has all but stopped since Uribe became president in 2002.

He has all but wiped out the FARC and they are turning themselves in a lot this year after one of the head leaders bodyguard killed him to collect reward.

The kidnappings are not like they were in the 80's and 90's.

Answer 7

The large drug cartels that are moving vast quantities of Coke and Heroine from Colombia to outlying countries have basically moved into every aspect of Colombian and Latin American  life.  Latin American countries have a history of unstable currencies, corrupt government officials at both the federal and national levels and the wage structure of the working classes do not keep up with the cost of living.    Kidnapping is an easy way to get rid of competition and gain financial reward.  The greatest percentage of the kidnappings you read about involve the drug cartels and usually the victims are one of their own or are a high ranking or wealthy citizen who lives well beyond the means of the average person.  Where you have hard drugs you have fallout and Columbia is the heart of drug country.  We too have the same thing happening in Mexico in the border and ocean fronted cities so it is not unique to Colombia but as Colombia is the heart of  drug production you hear more about  the kidnappings and murders there than you do anywhere.