March for the kidnapped

[Mark]

Large crowds of people in Colombia have taken to the streets, some holding photographs of missing loved ones. The Farc has waged a 44-year civil war there and still holds 700 captives. Up to 2,000 more people are believed to be held by the ELN (National Liberation Army), another left-wing rebel group.

Cries for freedom

In Paris, thousands gathered near the Eiffel Tower to hear Ms Betancourt, who was freed in a daring military rescue earlier this month after six years in captivity. She read out a list of names of those still held by the Farc (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) and called for their release.

"We want freedom for everyone," said Ms Betancourt, speaking in Spanish amid applause and chants from the crowd of "Libertad", or Freedom. Her speech was also broadcast in Colombia, where marches are taking place in most of the country's more than 1,000 municipalities, coinciding with the nation's independence day.

Pop star Shakira is leading the biggest demonstration, in Bogota, where people are walking along six different routes around the capital.

The BBC's Jeremy McDermott in Bogata says a huge crowd of people dressed in white t-shirts swarmed into the capital's main square. He describes cries of "Libertad! Libertad!" echoing off the high-rise buildings. But he says the question is whether the rebels of the Farc group are going to listen.

'Impervious'

A previous demonstration in February this year saw almost a million people take to the streets in Bogota alone.

Now, after the successful rescue of 15 hostages earlier this month from the Farc, the best-known of whom was Ms Betancourt, the turnout is expected to be even greater, with concerts and events being held in more than 40 countries. Earlier this week, they kidnapped 10 people travelling down the Atrato River in the western province of Choco.

While being badly hit by government offensives and a series of recent setbacks, there has been no softening of their position. Yet even the Farc will have to pay attention to not just millions of Colombians but cries from around the world to end the kidnapping and violence, our correspondent says.

[Bi7733]

I have heard about the kidnappings in colombia, but I am unsure of their motivation. What exactly are they trying to gain from this? Are the kidnapping travelers or natives? I am plaining to visit Bogata in April, so I want to know what is going on.. Is it safe to go for an African American male alone?

[Mark]

The FARC started kidnapping people to destabilize the government. Later on kidnappings were committed to fund its organization. Colombia is a very beautiful country but can be a bit hectic.

Some general travel tips:

1) When taking taxis at night in Bogota, always call for the taxi on the phone. They will give you a key code, when the taxi shows up the driver will give you the same key code. It's for your safety.
2) Like in any other big city watch out for pickpockets.
3) Be careful with your drinks in bars, someone may put something in them.
4) Neighborhoods such as La Zona Rosa, Zona G, Usaquen and Parque 93 are all safe at night.
5) Use your common sense, don't wander off in badly lit neighborhoods.
6) Don't get paranoid and enjoy your stay.


Best wishes,

Mark