ZAKA volunteers open temporary clinic amid search and rescue operations after Colombia earthquake

ZAKA volunteers opened a temporary clinic and conducted search and rescue operations in Colombia after a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the coastal Choco province on Monday, killing at least 250 people. The delegation, including doctors and engineers, arrived in Cali, Pereira, and Chocó, working with local teams. An additional Israeli humanitarian delegation is expected to depart following a request from Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella.

A delegation from ZAKA's International Division is providing assistance in Colombia following a deadly earthquake that killed at least 250 people. The earthquake struck on Monday with a magnitude of 7.4, shaking Colombia's coastal Choco province. According to the geological service, the quake struck at a depth of 79 km, with its epicenter near San José del Palmar. Shortly after, a magnitude 4.8 aftershock was reported in the same region. The delegation, including search and rescue personnel, doctors, engineers, and experts in preserving the dignity of the dead, arrived in Cali, Pereira, and Chocó, working alongside local rescue teams. ZAKA established a temporary clinic at one of the destruction sites to provide immediate medical care. Yosef Garmon, ZAKA South America Commander, said they began operating from the first moment to save lives and help anyone in need, treating the sick and injured under field conditions. Baruch Nidam, Director of ZAKA's International Division, emphasized their experience and dedication, working around the clock with local forces. ZAKA CEO Zvi Hassid echoed that they go to the most difficult places to help and save lives. An additional humanitarian delegation from Israel is expected to depart in the coming days, following a request from Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella. ZAKA volunteers are expected to join the delegation.