TIRANA, August 12 – The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs is monitoring the situation following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia on August 10. The epicentre was near San José del Palmar, in western Colombia.

According to information reported by Colombian authorities, the earthquake has so far caused 132 deaths and more than 570 injuries. Meanwhile, search-and-rescue operations and damage assessments are continuing in the affected areas.

The Ministry, through the Embassy of Albania in Brazil, which also covers Colombia, remains in contact with the Colombian authorities and is continuously verifying the situation of Albanian nationals. So far, there have been no reports of Albanian nationals killed or injured in the earthquake.

In addition, according to information received so far, there has been no damage to the correctional facilities where Albanian nationals are serving sentences in Colombia or awaiting extradition procedures. At the same time, the Ministry and the Albanian Embassy in Brazil continue to communicate with the Colombian authorities and monitor the situation.

Albanian nationals in Colombia who need consular assistance can contact the emergency number of the Embassy of Albania in Brazil at +55 61 99301 6139.

/a.p./