"Explosive at transportation company reveals security crisis in Lima"

In the early hours of Thursday, a wave of fear and consternation swept over San Juan de Lurigancho when a group of extortionists left an explosive device in the garage of the transportation company Etusa, amidst a national strike called by industry unions. This incident highlights the growing concern over the insecurity faced by transport workers in Lima, a problem that has been escalating in recent months and is beginning to affect the daily lives of thousands of citizens who rely on public transportation.

The swift response of the National Police of Peru (PNP) prevented what could have been a tragedy. Officers arrived at the scene after receiving the alert and managed to deactivate the explosive device, securing the area to prevent further damage. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the attack underscores the serious situation facing the transportation sector. Criminality has found a new target in this field, using increasingly violent methods to impose its control.

The national strike, which has spread throughout the country, was organized as a protest against the constant extortion faced by transport workers. Death threats and the collection of quotas are common practices in an environment where violence has become part of the landscape. Although Etusa had decided not to comply with the strike and continue its operations, the attack led its drivers to suspend their activities for fear of reprisals.

The reaction from transport unions has been clear and forceful. They demand that the government take immediate measures to ensure the safety of those working in this critical sector. The lack of action has left these workers vulnerable, exposed to the violence of criminal groups operating with impunity. The situation is unsustainable, and transport workers are calling for concrete responses that address this issue comprehensively.

The fact that violence intensifies during a national strike adds an additional level of complexity to the problem. The decision of some transport workers to continue operating, in contrast to others who chose to follow the strike, seems to have exacerbated tensions in the sector. The threat of attacks and reprisals looms over all involved, creating a climate of insecurity that affects not only the drivers but also public transportation users.

While the PNP conducts investigations to identify those responsible for the attack and dismantle the criminal gangs operating in the area, citizens find themselves caught in the middle of this crisis. Many depend on public transportation to reach their workplaces, and the uncertainty about the safety of their journeys causes them concern. The implications of these acts of violence extend beyond the transportation industry, affecting society as a whole.

This attack is not only a brutal reminder of the violence that prevails in certain areas of Lima but also a call to action for the authorities. The situation demands a more robust and effective approach to combat extortion and ensure the protection of citizens. Transport workers, as a vital part of the city's economy, deserve to live and work without the shadow of fear that currently looms over them.

As the national strike continues and pressure mounts on the government, time is of the essence. Authorities must demonstrate their commitment to the safety of transport workers and the general population. This involves not only immediate measures but also a long-term plan that addresses the underlying causes of crime and extortion.

The community of San Juan de Lurigancho and other affected areas are clamoring for answers. Security is a fundamental right that must be guaranteed, and it is the state's responsibility to ensure that all citizens can exercise it without fear. The fight against extortion and violence cannot be sidelined; it is a challenge that must be faced with determination and firmness.

In this context, citizens expect to see concrete and effective actions from the government and the National Police to restore trust and safety in public transportation. Violence cannot be the norm, and it is time to make decisions that prioritize the safety and well-being of all.