Paraguay Warns of Extortion Scheme Targeting Pensioners

Paraguay's Ministry of Social Development (MDS) has issued a public warning regarding an alleged extortion scheme targeting elderly citizens who receive pensions. The ministry reported that individuals are demanding regular payments from seniors under the threat of removing them from the universal pension program.

According to the MDS, the scheme involves demanding a G. 15,000 payment for a "carnet" (ID card) and a subsequent monthly fee of G. 20,000. Those orchestrating the alleged extortion are reportedly warning beneficiaries that failure to pay will result in their exclusion from the program. The ministry stressed that the social program has no such requirements and urged recipients to resist these demands.

The MDS has filed official complaints regarding these irregularities and has identified Elías Cabral, a communicator leading a group called the "Coordinadora de adultos mayores y familia," as a person of interest. The ministry reiterated that the law clearly outlines the procedures for pension eligibility and payment, and no private organizations or fees are involved. Payment dates for the current month were also confirmed, with new beneficiaries scheduled to receive their payments on August 26.