Public Transport Strike Brings Lima and Callao to a Standstill
Over 22,000 public transport vehicles in the Peruvian capital, Lima, and the adjacent port city of Callao, remained stationary today due to a strike called by the main trade unions in the sector. The strike, initially scheduled for January 15, was brought forward a day after recent deadly attacks on bus drivers. This drastic measure was taken in response to the alarming increase in extortion and attacks against drivers and companies, which have resulted in the deaths of two drivers in the first ten days of 2026 alone.
Escalation of Violence and Lack of Progress in Transport Safety Legislation
Representatives of the sector have denounced the lack of progress in the implementation of transport safety legislation, citing an unprecedented escalation of violence. The recent attacks have left the community shaken, with eight reported incidents in the first ten days of 2026. The trade unions are calling for urgent measures and a concrete response from the State to combat extortion and the hitman phenomenon, which has become a major concern for public safety.
Security Measures and State Response
To guarantee public order, the National Police has deployed over 13,000 officers in strategic points of the capital. This significant deployment of security personnel aims to maintain peace and prevent any potential disruptions. Meanwhile, the unions continue to demand a comprehensive solution to address the root causes of the violence and ensure the safety of drivers and passengers. The strike has brought attention to the critical issue of transport safety, and it remains to be seen how the State will respond to the unions’ demands.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The public transport strike in Lima and Callao has highlighted the urgent need for effective measures to combat extortion and violence against drivers and companies. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for the authorities to take concrete steps to address the concerns of the trade unions and ensure the safety of the public. For more information on this developing story, please visit Here.