In this edition of the Global Kidnap Bulletin, we look at the proliferation of organised crime in Southeast Asia, analyse how extortion is affecting Cape Town’s hospitality industry, explore the threat of politically motivated detentions in Russia amid elevated tensions with the West, assess the vulnerability of private schools to extortion in Peru, and consider how some Latin American countries are fighting crime.
World news in brief
A roundup of key political violence developments globally. Read the article
Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States
Bargaining chips: Politically motivated detentions in Russia
The August 2024 US-Russia prisoner exchange underscores Russia’s growing use of foreign nationals as bargaining chips amid geopolitical tensions and strained relations with the West. Such detentions of domestic nationals, particularly government critics, have also increased since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Read the article
Latin America
A shot in the dark: Fighting crime in Latin America
An increase in both demand and supply of narcotics in recent years has prompted an associated uptick in drug-related crime, even in countries previously considered safer. While some governments have adopted a militarised approach to the problem, others are turning to more peaceful methods. But as gangs continue to grow in resources and power, neither strategy looks likely to guarantee success. Read the article
Asia Pacific
Big business: Organised crime in Southeast Asia
Organised crime in Southeast Asia has proliferated in recent years, branching into new revenue generating schemes that now affect millions of victims around the world. Despite various initiatives against illicit activity in the region, a combination of geographic characteristics, as well as political and conflict dynamics, continues to facilitate criminal operations. Read the article
Latin America
The high cost of learning: Violent extortion plagues schools in Peru’s La Libertad Department
Private schools in Peru are increasingly targeted by extortion, with violent reprisals including bombings and shootings. A combination of limited security resources, underreporting, and political instability allows organised crime to exploit vulnerable educational institutions. Read the article
Sub-Saharan Africa
A pound of flesh: Extortionists double down on Cape Town’s hospitality industry
The recent closure of a prominent bar and eatery in central Cape Town has refocused attention on widespread extortion in the city's hospitality industry. With the practice now entrenched, and an understaffed police force, corruption, and collusion creating a conducive environment, extortion will likely remain a threat to the sector for the foreseeable future. Read the article
