Lima and Callao Face Total Transport Strike Amid Rising Crime Wave
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A complete shutdown of public transportation is set to paralyze Lima and Callao this Wednesday, January 14, as transport unions protest a surge in criminal activity targeting the sector. The strike, impacting an estimated 22,000 vehicles, comes after failed negotiations with government officials regarding increased security measures.
Unions Demand action Against Extortion and Violence
The planned transport stoppage is a direct response to escalating threats against transport workers,including instances of hitmen,extortion,and illegal “quota collection” schemes. According to union representatives, more than 320 companies are expected to participate in the 24-hour strike, effectively halting operations across the metropolitan area.
“If we are going to complain it is indeed as we are all affected. There is a popular outcry,” stated a leader from the Coordinator of Urban Transportation Companies, following meetings with interim president José Jeri and other authorities.The sentiment reflects widespread frustration within the industry over what unions describe as a deteriorating security situation.
Which Transport Lines Will Be Affected?
Nearly all formal transportation companies will cease operations on Wednesday. The following lines have confirmed thier participation in the strike:
- The 50 El Rápido SA
- Transport Huascar S.A.
- Multiple Service Company
- New Peru S.A.C.
- Transport and Services Company Salvador S.A.C. (ETSSSAC)
- StupidTransport Company Edilberto Ramos S.A.C.
- Urbanite
- Transport company New America S.A.
- Chosicano
- Transport Negotiations St. anita S.A.C.
- E.S.T. Saint Catherine S.A. (ESTSACASA)
- Santo Transport Company Christ of Pachacamilla S.A. (ETRASCPSA)
Commuters should anticipate notable disruptions and plan alternative transportation arrangements.
“Man-machine” Mobilization Planned
Along with the complete stoppage, Transportes Unidos, representing many of Lima’s main transport lines, has announced a “man-machine” mobilization. This will involve a procession of vehicles along major roadways, including the Panamericana highway and areas within San Juan de Lurigancho. A spokesperson for the association, Martín Ojeda, emphasized the need for increased visibility and pressure on authorities to address the crisis.
Key Demands: Police presence and Legal Reform
Union leaders cite a critical lack of police presence, especially during peak hours, as a major contributing factor to the escalating violence. They claim recent restructuring within police headquarters has left several stations and investigative units understaffed and unable to effectively respond to threats.
Beyond increased security, the unions are also calling for the immediate regulation of Law No. 32,490, which aims to provide financial support to the families of murdered drivers. They further demand stricter enforcement of existing regulations prohibiting two people from riding on a single motorcycle,a practice they believe facilitates criminal activity.
Despite ongoing dialog with the Executive branch and the Ministry of the Interior,the unions maintain that concrete action is needed to address the root causes of the violence and ensure the safety of transport workers. As of this week, unions report up to 10 attacks against transport units already this year, underscoring the urgency
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