Peruvian Schoolchildren Face Threats from Extortion Gangs

Peruvian schoolchildren are under threat from extortion gangs, prompting many schools to shift to online classes for safety. The situation began with local businesses and has now escalated to private schools, with gangs demanding large sums of money. Authorities have acknowledged the growing public fear and violence, leading to significant pressure on the government to act effectively.

In Lima, Peru, schoolchildren are increasingly at risk from extortion gangs, which have shifted their focus from local businesses to educational institutions. These gangs threaten to kill staff and parents unless large sums of money, sometimes upwards of tens of thousands of dollars, are paid. This escalating violence has compelled hundreds of private schools to transition classes online to protect students, exposing a broader security crisis in the country.

The academic year for some institutions, such as the San Vicente primary and secondary school, has been drastically disrupted by violence. Following an explosive attack after the school refused to pay a protection fee, classes were canceled for a month, during which the students’ safety remained a primary concern. The return of students is now under the watchful eye of armed guards, underscoring the dire atmosphere.

Extortion is pervasive in many parts of Latin America; however, it has reached unprecedented levels in Peru. Gangs, including transnational groups, are exploiting the situation for substantial financial profit, making extortion a more lucrative enterprise than drug trafficking. In response to the alarming situation, President Dina Boluarte declared a state of emergency in March, deploying soldiers to enhance public safety amid a series of violent incidents linked to these criminal groups.

Giannina Miranda, representing a collective of private schools, reported that 325 educational institutions have been forced to indefinitely suspend in-person classes, with extortion affecting about 500 schools overall. Parents express immense concern for their children’s safety, with some likening the atmosphere of fear to historical periods of violence in the country, such as the brutal insurgency from the 1980s to the 1990s.

Despite a reported 13% decrease in complaints regarding racketeering in 2024, law enforcement acknowledges many victims choose not to report incidents due to fear. The extensive violence is creating a challenging environment for families and teachers alike, significantly impacting President Boluarte’s approval ratings, with overwhelming disapproval from the populace visible in recent polling data.

In summary, the rise of extortion gangs targeting schools in Peru illustrates a concerning trend that compromises the safety and education of children, reflecting broader security challenges in the nation. The government faces mounting pressure to effectively address this crisis amidst a backdrop of public discontent and fear.

In conclusion, the surge of extortion gangs targeting educational institutions in Peru has created a critical situation affecting the safety of schoolchildren. With many schools transitioning to online formats and public sentiment turning against the government, leaders must address these security concerns rapidly. The alarming reality of threats to students, parents, and staff alike exemplifies the urgent need for effective interventions to restore safety in schools and communities throughout the nation.

Original Source: www.france24.com