Criminal gang threatens La Libertad truckers with arson as minors seized with firearms

A criminal group calling itself “Los Lechuzas” has issued threats to heavy‑load truck drivers in the La Libertad highlands of Peru. The gang posted a warning on a stone and circulated a video showing armed men demanding payment for "cupos" on routes through Otuzco, Gran Chimú, and surrounding districts. They warned they will set trucks on fire if drivers do not contact the group via a listed phone number. Local authorities are gathering information and have been asked to increase police patrols and community vigilance.

In related police operations, the National Police detained several adolescents in the provinces of Trujillo and Virú. Four minors were seized together with a .380 pistol, ammunition, multiple phones and small quantities of marijuana. The operation also uncovered a separate group of three minors linked to adults in the “Los Intocables de Miramar” band, from whom a revolver with fourteen rounds and additional phones were confiscated. All detainees are being held in preventive custody pending investigation.