Family who fled to Kent to escape Colombian drug cartel have bid for asylum rejected by Home Office

Colombian Family in Kent Faces Asylum Rejection Amid Drug Cartel Threats

A Colombian family in Kent fears for their lives after their asylum bid was denied by the Home Office, despite fleeing a drug cartel.

World

Colombia, Kent, Asylum, Drug Cartel, Family

Calarcá: A Colombian family is in a tough spot after fleeing their home due to threats from a drug cartel. They ended up in Kent, hoping for safety, but their asylum request was turned down by the Home Office.

Luisa Rodriguez, 37, and her three daughters have been living in a hotel in Ashford since they arrived in the UK. They left Colombia after Luisa’s husband, a police officer, refused to work with the Clan Del Golfo gang, which led to terrifying threats against them.

Now, they’re worried about what will happen if they’re sent back. Luisa and her daughters are feeling lost and scared after the rejection, which many are calling “beyond comprehension.”

Luisa, who used to work as a nurse, is determined to keep her kids safe. She recalls how their life in Colombia turned upside down when the threats began. It started with messages to her husband, but soon escalated to gunfire at their home.

They sought refuge in the UK, where Luisa’s father lives, but the Home Office says they wouldn’t be in danger if they returned. They suggested moving to other cities in Colombia, but Luisa argues those places are still dangerous.

The family is now hoping for a successful appeal. They’ve found support from the local community in Godmersham, who have welcomed them with open arms. Luisa is studying and wants to contribute to the NHS if they can stay.

Everyone is rooting for them, hoping the Home Office will reconsider and recognize the real risks they face. The family just wants a chance to build a new life without fear.

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.kentonline.co.uk/ashford/news/we-fled-to-kent-to-escape-colombian-drug-cartel-we-ll-be-318579/