Argentina police dismantle extortion ring and raid gym chains

Argentine authorities have conducted major operations targeting organized crime networks in La Plata and the gym industry in Chaco and Corrientes.

In La Plata, 15 raids led to 11 arrests as part of an investigation into a criminal group allegedly linked to the Chinese mafia. The organization reportedly used a community merchant entity as a front to conduct extortion, threats, arms and drug trafficking, illegal currency exchange, and usury. The investigation follows the 2022 escape of Ke Deqiang, also known as “Matías”. Authorities also suspect former municipal officials may have facilitated fraudulent permits and commercial licenses.

Simultaneously, federal police have carried out raids on the VIVA gym chain in Resistencia and Corrientes. The investigation focuses on potential violations of drug trafficking laws. This follows recent legal actions against the Exxen Gym chain regarding alleged money laundering. In response to the Exxen investigation, workers have sought judicial intervention to allow certain branches to remain operational, arguing they are good-faith third parties.