Peruvian police arrest gang linked to bus extortion attacks

Peruvian police have apprehended three individuals suspected of belonging to a criminal group that extorted bus companies, demanding sums of up to S/100,000 (approximately $27,000 USD) to prevent attacks.

The operation, conducted by the National Police, targeted a structure accused of not only orchestrating assaults on buses but also turning threats into a lucrative business. The gang allegedly used WhatsApp messages and designated bank accounts to collect extortion payments.

Among those arrested is José Antonio Lindo Chahuana, 52, known as 'Perrón,' who police identify as the alleged ringleader and financial administrator. He was reportedly detained in San Juan de Lurigancho while collecting S/5,000, believed to be an extortion payment.

Also apprehended were Rosa Consuelo Vidas Torres, 38, alias 'Muñeca,' in Rímac, who allegedly provided her accounts for receiving extortion money and has prior records for aggravated robbery. José Grabiel Urbina Castellanos, 27, alias 'Barbón,' was arrested in San Martín de Porres and is accused of being part of the armed wing, allegedly driving the vehicle that followed a Cruz del Sur bus before an attack.

Investigators believe the group is responsible for at least two shooting incidents targeting Cruz del Sur buses. One occurred on August 19, where two buses were shot at while traveling from Lima to Ica, and another on July 19 in Puente Piedra, where a bus bound for Huaraz was fired upon. Following the July attack, an envelope containing a phone number was left, which has been incorporated into the investigation.