Welsh tourist mugged at knifepoint in terrifying machete incident
A man undertaking a monumental challenge to walk the entire length of the Andes through seven countries has recounted a harrowing experience of being mugged at knifepoint by individuals armed with a machete and knives. Ollie Treviso, aged 29, shared the harrowing ordeal he faced with WalesOnline while journeying through Colombia as part of his ambitious endeavour. Commencing his audacious mission in September 2023, Ollie has traversed through Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador. Currently in Colombia, his final destination is Venezuela, culminating his 8,000-mile (14,000km) south-to-north trek through western South America.
Throughout his journey, Ollie has endured diverse terrains such as deserts, forests, jungles, and awe-inspiring glaciers and snow-capped mountains. However, it was in Colombia that he encountered a life-threatening situation. Recalling the incident, Ollie described how he was approached by three menacing individuals, one wielding a machete and two brandishing knives, demanding his money and phone. Despite the terrifying experience, Ollie managed to navigate the situation by complying with their demands and ensuring his safety. His quick thinking and preparation, including strategically placing his money, aided in diffusing the situation.
Having planned ahead for such contingencies, Ollie’s presence of mind allowed him to mitigate the risk and emerge from the encounter unscathed. Reflecting on the incident, he expressed gratitude for escaping physical harm and lauded the support he received following the ordeal. With access to a satellite phone, Ollie was able to notify his brother of the incident and providentially found assistance from a contact in Colombia. This timely assistance provided him with shelter, communication, and a sense of security amidst an otherwise challenging predicament.
As Ollie progresses towards the culmination of his extraordinary expedition in Venezuela, he remains determined to achieve his goal and raise funds for the Ystradgynlais branch of mental health charity Mind in the Swansea Valley. Despite the setback, Ollie’s resilience and positive outlook underscore his unwavering commitment to completing his historic feat. Embracing the physical rigours of his journey, Ollie finds solace in the gratitude of his experience and acknowledges the privilege of choice and opportunity compared to those less fortunate.
Looking ahead to his return home, Ollie anticipates reconnecting with his community, sharing his story with schools and colleges, and cherishing simple pleasures such as a home-cooked meal and a pint of Guinness. His aspirations extend beyond personal triumph as he envisions leveraging his journey to inspire others and support mental health initiatives in his local community. With a book project on the horizon and a desire to engage with his roots, Ollie’s expedition serves as a testament to human resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of perseverance.
To follow Ollie’s progress and contribute to his cause, visit his Instagram page and GoFundMe fundraising page. Joining him in his mission to raise awareness for mental health, individuals can support Mind Ystradgynlais and aid Ollie in realising his vision of making a positive impact beyond his remarkable odyssey. Stay informed on Ollie’s journey and further developments by following his social media platforms and engaging with his fundraising efforts. As Ollie nears the conclusion of his historic trek, his story continues to inspire resilience, community support, and a commitment to driving positive change.