Terror in Colombia: Real Cartegena and Junior's bars clashed in the run-up to the match against Palmerias

Serious acts of violence shook Cartagena in the run-up to the match between Junior de Barranquilla and Palmeiras for the Copa Libertadores. In the vicinity of the Jaime Morón León Stadium, fans staged clashes that left several injured,

scenes of extreme violence and destruction.

The incidents involved Real Cartagena bars and Junior fans, in a climate that had already been heavy hours before. Threats and calls to confront each other had circulated on social networks, which eventually took place in different parts

of the city.

The clashes began around 6 p.m., when groups of both sides crossed paths with stones, knives and physical attacks, affecting even people outside the event who had to hide in shops and shopping centers. Despite an operation of more than 600 personnel, the violence went beyond controls in different parts of the city

.

One of the most serious episodes involved a young Junior fan, who was attacked after falling to the ground. According to released images, he received multiple stab wounds in the back and blows to different parts of his body. Hours later, local media said they confirmed that he was the first fatal victim of the incidents

. Attacks on vehicles carrying sympathizers were

also recorded. A bus of Junior's fans ended up on fire on a highway, although the company said it was a mechanical failure and there were no injuries. In another event, a group with supporters of Real Cartagena was attacked by rivals, who tried to tear it down in the middle of the road, which

led to police intervention.

In addition, a group of Junior fans traveling from Barranquilla was intercepted and attacked: they broke the vehicle's windows and damaged one of its wheels, however, the occupants were unharmed thanks to the action of the anti-riot squad.

The tension was also reflected in different parts of the city, where intimidating messages appeared, such as a flag with the caption "Death to the shark “, in reference to the Barranquilla club.

Authorities are now analyzing what happened and evaluating sanctions, while criticism for safety at sporting events in Colombia is growing

.