During their recent four-day visit to Colombia, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were met with a level of security typically reserved for high-ranking officials. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have been residing in the United States since 2020, were heavily guarded as they traveled from Bogotá to Cartagena, with a staggering 3,000 police officers reportedly on duty to ensure their safety.
High-Alert Security in Colombia
The couple’s visit to Colombia was characterized by a highly coordinated security operation, particularly as they moved between the country’s capital, Bogotá, and the coastal town of Cartagena. According to reports, nearby roads were closed, and air support in the form of a police Black Hawk helicopter and a drone monitored the area from above. The heightened security also included the presence of an anti-terrorism vehicle, a precautionary ambulance, and armed officers patrolling key locations.
One of the most notable aspects of their security detail was the use of “ballistic briefcases”—collapsible Kevlar bulletproof shields—carried by security personnel as Harry and Meghan moved through high-risk areas. These briefcases were visibly deployed as the couple visited Bogotá’s Santa Fe district, an area notorious for its high crime rate, which has been featured in the Apple TV series “No Go Zones—The World’s Toughest Place.”
Extensive Protection in Cartagena
In Cartagena, the Duke and Duchess visited a Caribbean drumming school, where the security presence remained equally robust. The couple arrived an hour late, escorted by several security teams carrying the ballistic shields, which were used to protect them from potential threats.
During their visit, Harry and Meghan were accompanied by Colombia’s Vice President, Francia Márquez, who has also been a recipient of similar security measures in the past. The couple’s visit to the Santa Fe district, known for its dangerous conditions, was marked by an extensive convoy of 16 armored police vehicles and a heavy police presence, underscoring the significant precautions taken to ensure their safety.
Cultural Engagements and Public Appearances
Despite the intense security measures, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle actively participated in cultural and educational activities during their visit. At La Giralda school in the Santa Fe district, they observed an art class, toured a kindergarten, and planted trees with young students in the school’s garden. The Duke of Sussex appeared at ease throughout the visit, even enjoying a traditional Colombian music performance prepared by the children.
The couple also met with members of Colombia’s Invictus Games squad, who are preparing for the 2025 games in Whistler, Canada. At the Centro de Rehabilitación Inclusiva, Harry and Meghan toured the facility’s rehabilitation centers, including a swimming pool, rock climbing wall, and gym, where they engaged with athletes and discussed their training routines.
Addressing Misinformation and AI Risks
Prince Harry used the visit to also address broader social issues. During a summit on digital responsibility in Bogotá, the Duke expressed concerns about the dangers of misinformation and the emerging risks of artificial intelligence. He emphasized the need for education and awareness to combat the spread of false information online, warning that misinformation can quickly manifest in real-world consequences.
“What happens online within minutes transfers to the streets,” Harry stated, seemingly directing criticism at tech leaders like Elon Musk. He stressed the importance of distinguishing between true and false information, noting, “In an ideal world, those with influence would take more responsibility.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s visit to Colombia highlighted both their ongoing commitment to global issues and the extraordinary security challenges they face as prominent public figures. The intense measures taken to protect them underscore the complexities of their public life, even as they continue to engage in meaningful cultural and humanitarian work across the globe.
