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, charging a 20% interest rate, and intimidated victims into giving their bank account information. An estimated $20 million linked to drug trafficking gangs has been sent to Colombia since 2021 under this scheme. The government's anti-gang push, which has led to a significant reduction in violent crime, has garnered high approval ratings for President Nayib Bukele ahead of his re-election bid.