Massive Financial Scheme: El Salvador Detains Over 100 Colombians

Salvadoran police have arrested over 100 Colombians, along with three Salvadorans, a Guatemalan, and an Argentine, for their alleged involvement in a microfinancing scheme that laundered money from drug running and gang activities. The criminal group provided loans with illegally obtained funds to individuals and small businesses, charging a 20% interest rate. When victims couldn't repay, they were intimidated into giving their bank account information, which was used to move money abroad. Approximately $20 million linked to drug trafficking gangs has been sent to Colombia since 2021 under this scheme.