The Guardian
Souvenirs depicting the late Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar could be banned in Colombia if legislators approve a bill introduced this week in the nation’s congress. The proposal is criticized by vendors who sell his merchandise to tourists from around the world, but backed by those who believe the country should shed its image of mafia bosses.
The bill proposes fines of up to $170 for vendors who sell merchandise that depicts Escobar and other convicted criminals, and would also enable police to fine those who wear T-shirts, hats and other garments that “exalt” the infamous drug lord.
“These items are revictimizing people who were victims of murderers,” said Cristian Avendaño, a representative from Colombia’s Green Alliance party who drafted the bill.
“We must protect the right of the victims to recover … and find other symbols for our country.”
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