Ayacucho merchants targeted by predatory 'gota a gota' loan extortion

Merchants and social organizations in Ayacucho have raised alarms following the distribution of flyers offering informal “gota a gota” loans. These loans are characterized by minimal requirements and rapid cash delivery, but they often lead to aggressive collection tactics, including harassment, threats, and physical aggression if payments are missed.

Jhon Lapa, president of the Frente de Defensa del Pueblo de Ayacucho (Fredepa), has called on authorities to increase prevention and intelligence efforts to identify those distributing the flyers. The primary concern is for small-scale merchants in the Huamanga commercial zones who may seek immediate capital through these high-risk methods. Lapa urged anyone facing extortion or threats to report the incidents and advised market administrations to remain vigilant.