22 pct of small firms in El Salvador victims of extortion
SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador – A study in El Salvador says 22 per cent of small businesses in the Central American country have been victims of extortion by street gangs.
El Salvador’s Foundation for Economic and Social development says the study involved almost 4,000 business operators.
The study says 59 per cent of those who reported being victims of extortion said it involved gangs demanding regular protection payments.
Researchers also found that almost half of the businesses surveyed reported some type of crime against them.
Largely because of street gang violence, El Salvador recorded one of the highest homicide rates in the world last year, though killings have dropped recently.
News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Join the Conversation!
Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?
You must be logged in to post a comment.
