Peru is 'losing the battle' against organized crime, business groups say

28/9/2024 11:53

        Peru's business associations said on Friday that the country is "losing the battle" against organized crime, after an escalation in extortions forced the government to call in the military to help police bolster security in the capital Lima.
        
        The Andean nation's government on Thursday declared a 60-day state of emergency in 12 districts of Lima after bus drivers in the city went on strike, demanding greater protection from authorities due to a wave of extortion and attacks. On Friday, it added two more districts.
        
        More than 20 trade associations said in a joint statement, "We live under siege from organized crime which has taken control of the country in the alarming absence of the state."
        
        The organizations range from industry and commerce to import-export firms, restaurants and even beauty salons.
        
        They said, "None of our activities, regardless of size or sector, is safe from extortion."
        
        The business groups said organized crime is being compounded by the strengthening of economic activities operating outside the law, such as illegal mining, which they say has infiltrated politics.