Financial Crime World

Crime on the Rise in Paraguay: Types of Financial Crimes and Violent Offenses

Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay, has experienced a surge in crime in recent years, with a focus on targeting individuals perceived to be wealthy. While most crimes are non-violent, there has been an increase in the use of firearms and incidents of extreme violence.

Financial Crimes: A Major Concern

  • Cigarette Smuggling: Cigarette smuggling from Brazil into Paraguay is a notable type of financial crime. The tax rate on cigarettes is significantly lower in Paraguay, making it an attractive market for illicit trade.
    • This has been linked to relatives of President Horacio Cartes, who own a factory that produces cigarettes for export to Brazil.

Violent Offenses: A Threat to Democracy and Development

  • Corruption: Corruption remains a significant obstacle to democratic institutions and economic development in Paraguay. According to reports, one woman was murdered every 10 days in the country in 2009, accounting for 11.2% of the overall homicide rate.
  • Illicit Substances: The production and trafficking of illicit substances is also a major concern in Paraguay. The country is the largest producer of cannabis in South America and plays a significant role in the transshipment of cocaine from other countries.

Other Crimes: A Growing Problem

  • Armed Robbery, Carjackings, and Home Invasions: These crimes are common in both urban and rural areas.
  • Street Crime: Street crime, including pickpocketing and mugging, is also prevalent in cities like Asunción.

Law Enforcement Efforts: Progress and Challenges

  • Decrease in Homicide Rate: According to statistics, the homicide rate in Paraguay decreased from 9.7 per 100,000 population in 2012 to 5.1 per 100,000 in 2018.
  • Special Police Units for Domestic Violence Victims: Law enforcement efforts have been implemented to combat these crimes, including the creation of special police units for domestic violence victims.
  • Challenges: However, lack of adequate laws and conservative attitudes within Paraguay’s male-dominated society hinder progress in addressing these issues.

Additional Concerns

  • Unauthorized Ticket Vendors: The Asunción bus terminal has also seen a rise in unauthorized ticket vendors.
  • Pilferage from Checked Baggage: Pilferage from checked baggage at both airports and bus terminals is also a concern.