In a shocking incident that has sent chills through tourists and locals alike, a father and his 22-year-old son, enjoying a relaxing day at a popular Pacific beach in Colombia, were brutally kidnapped by armed men in front of horrified onlookers.

Alexander Valencia Hernández, 44, and his son Nicolás Valencia Ducuara were snatched from La Bocana beach in Buenaventura, Colombia’s largest port city, known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty but plagued by ruthless criminal gangs.

Disturbing video captured the moments before the nightmare unfolded, showing the pair and others on the sandy shore near beached boats, gesturing and moving around as if enjoying the day – completely unaware of the danger closing in.

Hours later, authorities made the grim discovery: Alexander’s body was found floating in a tidal area. His son Nicolás is still missing, with fears mounting for his safety.

The pair, originally from Cartago in Colombia’s Valle del Cauca department (with some reports linking them to Tolima), had traveled to the scenic spot for a peaceful getaway involving fishing and beach time with friends during a holiday weekend.

According to preliminary reports, the horror began after a shootout in the area. The father and son were reportedly intercepted during what started as an attempted robbery. Nicolás was allegedly wounded by gunfire before both were forcibly taken to a remote, swampy area where they are believed to have been tortured.

Family members were reportedly told the men were being held by an armed group on a nearby island. Some companions managed to escape and raise the alarm.

Colombian police have launched a major search operation involving the National Police, Coast Guard, and CTI investigators. Brigadier General Liliana Rodríguez addressed the nation in a stern video statement, confirming the recovery of Alexander’s body and vowing justice.

“We reject this homicide and kidnapping,” she declared, adding that a massive reward of up to 100 million Colombian pesos (around £20,000/$27,000) is on offer for information leading to the captors and Nicolás’s location.

Authorities have pointed the finger at the notorious criminal group known as ‘Los Shottas’ (or Chotas), who control parts of the region amid brutal turf wars linked to drug trafficking and extortion.

Buenaventura, while a gateway for visitors seeking sun, sea, and adventure, has long been a hotspot for violence. The Pacific port city is frequently caught in the crossfire of gangs battling for control, turning what should be a tourist haven into a no-go zone for many.