COLOMBIA: Bull-Ring Massacre

The day before last week's bullfights in Bogotá, the Colombian government announced cryptically that it was taking "fitting measures" to head off opposition "political manifestations'' in the huge Santamaria bull ring. The measures turned out to be novel as well as fitting: the regime bought $15,000 worth of tickets and distributed them to thousands of policemen, plainclothesmen and government employees. On bullfight day the official ticketholders were waved through the gates; other fans were carefully frisked for weapons.

Inside, the government boys took up their positions and sent up lusty vivas...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!