Piura faces organized crime threats despite drop in extortion reports

The Piura region in Peru is facing a complex security crisis characterized by both shifting extortion statistics and the presence of organized crime. While reports of extortion dropped by 58% between January and July 2026 compared to the previous year—falling from 1,795 to 752 cases—authorities caution that this may reflect a decrease in reported cases rather than an actual reduction in crime. Piura remains the fourth highest region in Peru for accumulated extortion reports.

Criminal activity is concentrated heavily in the provinces of Piura and Sullana, which account for approximately 70% of registered reports. Former police chief Máximo Vargas Hugo has warned of the presence of at least 12 criminal organizations in the region, including transnational groups such as Tren de Aragua, Los Choneros, Los Pulpos, and Los Gánsters. These groups are reportedly merging with local gangs to fight for territorial control, leading to increased violence and murders.

Beyond physical safety, insecurity has significant economic impacts. The Consejo Privado de Competitividad estimates that insecurity cost the Piura economy approximately S/371 million between 2021 and 2024. Local businesses, including a high concentration of small grocery stores, face constant threats, compounded by environmental risks from the El Niño phenomenon.