Senior prosecutor Rocío Gala reveals that the Taiwanese ‘Red Dragon’ is growing its base in Peru.
They recently held 50 Malaysians captive for forced labor in a Lima home. Gala states that this crime type isn’t unique to Peru but is international.
Two victims escaped last weekend from a high-end house where they were held. After getting legal approval, police entered and found 44 victims in shocking conditions.
All these people had come to Peru legally, says Gala. Before, the ‘Red Dragon’ targeted Chinese business owners for protection money.
Now, they force captives to make extortion calls to Malaysia. They use mobile phones and tablets to do this.
Gala mentions these victims were tricked through social media with job promises. Police arrested eight people, including group leader William Tsai Wu.
In the raid, they seized phones, 15,000 Soles, and 10,000 dollars in cash. The Malaysian government confirmed that its citizens are safe and plans their future return.
Human trafficking is a big illegal business worldwide. In Peru, it generates around $1.3 billion a year.
This number is huge compared to the tiny amount the government spends on combating this issue.
Background
The ‘Red Dragon’ is just one example of organized crime in Peru. This criminal activity has roots in various countries, emphasizing its global reach.
Previously, Peru faced issues with local gangs and drug cartels. Now, international crime groups are making inroads.
In the context of human trafficking, Peru’s efforts remain limited. The state invests very little in combating this multi-billion dollar issue.
This lack of investment contrasts sharply with criminals’ high profits from human trafficking.
This recent event underscores the urgent need for stronger laws and better enforcement.
With international crime infiltration, Peru must up its game to safeguard its citizens and foreign nationals.