🚍 Extortion Crisis in Public Transportation in Peru: A National Alarm

In recent years, Peru has experienced an alarming wave of violence and threats against the public transportation system. Extortion of drivers, bus companies, and colectivos has become a common practice that generates fear among those who travel through the cities every day. This situation has escalated into a national security crisis.

The phenomenon is not new, but it has reached unprecedented levels. Criminal gangs have found in public transport an easy target to generate income through fear and intimidation.

🚨 What is happening?

Drivers receive threatening phone calls, social media messages, or even physical attacks if they refuse to pay a “fee” imposed by gangs. This fee can range from 50 to 200 soles per vehicle per day, which represents an unsustainable economic burden.

In some cases, the attacks go beyond threats. Reports include arson attacks on vehicles, shootings aimed at drivers, and assaults on fare collectors. These acts not only generate economic losses but also cost human lives.

📊 Alarming Data

According to the Peruvian National Police (PNP), more than 450 extortion complaints from transport companies were registered in just the first half of 2025. Lima, Callao, San Juan de Lurigancho, and Comas are the hardest-hit districts.

Violence rates have increased by 80% compared to the same period last year, and transport unions have organized strikes and marches demanding greater security and concrete government action.

👮 Government Response

The government has announced the creation of a special unit within the National Police dedicated exclusively to fighting transportation extortion. In addition, security cameras have been installed in some critical areas, and patrols have been reinforced during peak hours.

However, many believe these measures are insufficient. The gangs act with impunity and know the schedules and routes of the units, making it difficult for police operations to have lasting success.

💬 Public Opinion and Social Media

Citizen outrage has spread across social networks, where videos of extortion, victim testimonies, and public complaints are shared. Many users harshly criticize government inaction and demand a “zero tolerance” policy against gangs.

Others propose forming citizen groups to protect drivers and promote safe routes. Social networks have become a powerful tool to make the problem visible.

💡 Proposed Solutions

Among the measures that could make a difference are:

• 📱 Digitalizing payments to avoid manual collections and track routes.
• 🚓 Greater police presence on the most dangerous routes.
• 📝 Anonymous protected reporting campaigns so drivers feel safe reporting crimes.
• 🏛️ Inter-institutional coordination between municipalities, police, and ministries.
• 🎓 Civic education to prevent the normalization of violence.

🛑 Consequences of Inaction

If strong action is not taken, extortion could become a structural practice within public transportation. This would affect not only those working in the sector but also the millions of Peruvians who depend on this service for mobility.

Additionally, there is a risk that these gangs will expand their operations to other vulnerable economic sectors, such as informal trade or small businesses. Insecurity, if left unchecked, spreads like a virus.

📣 Call to Action

Civil society, transport unions, the State, and citizens in general must work together to eradicate extortion. It is not only about increasing penalties or reinforcing patrols but about building a culture of legality, respect, and mutual protection.

Peru has the capacity to solve this crisis, but it needs political will, effective coordination, and an informed, active citizenry.

🔎 Conclusion

Public transportation must be free from gangs. The current situation in Lima reflects the urgency of a comprehensive and sustained reform. Extortion not only threatens the safety of drivers but also the stability of the entire urban system. Silence is not an option; it is time to act.