I am a journalist and correspondent with experience covering news in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. I offer writing, video recording, and fixer services for international media seeking reliable and real-time information from the region.

I have worked as a correspondent for various media ...

Safe-conduct or extortion: the two options for irregular migrants in transit to the US

02 Oct 2023  |  www.vozdeamerica.com  |  Spanish  |  Extortion

Irregular migrants traveling to the US face significant challenges, including extortion and the threat of deportation. Some countries, like Honduras, offer a temporary safe-conduct pass that allows migrants to travel without harassment from authorities. However, in countries like Nicaragua and Guatemala, migrants often face extortion from both criminal groups and local authorities. The Organization of International Migration and Doctors of the World highlight the vulnerabilities and corruption migrants encounter, particularly in Guatemala, where the lack of a safe-conduct pass exacerbates their plight. The article underscores the dire conditions and systemic issues affecting migrants on their journey.

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Extortion Migration Human Rights

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Ali Hassan Bangwar is a freelance columnist based in Pakistan's Southeastern province of Sindh. He has contributed to The Express Tribune, Daily Times, Pakistan Today and South Asia Magazine. He has over 7 years of journalistic content writing experience including articles, columns and Op-ed for ...

The extortion industry of Kashmore

29 Sept 2024  |  The Express Tribune  |  English  |  Extortion

The extortion industry in Kashmore and Kandhkot, Sindh, poses a significant threat to the local population, particularly targeting the Hindu business community. The article highlights the systemic issues of lawlessness, tribal conflicts, and the complicity or incapacity of state functionaries, including the police and Rangers, in addressing the problem. The extortion process involves local intermediaries who provide information to bandit gangs, leading to demands for protection money. Despite the presence of civil society and local media, efforts to drive positive change have been undermined by vested interests and ties with local bureaucracy and tribal influentials.

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Extortion Lawlessness Tribal Conflicts

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Journalist/Producer @CNN @Vice @CBS @BusinessInsider @ajenglish @Guardian @TheDailyBeast @Proceso @El_universal_mx @efenoticias

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How One of Mexico’s Biggest Cartels Is Bloodying Up Your Margaritas

23 Oct 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Agricultural Extortion

The Jalisco New Generation Cartel has formed a specialized unit, Fuerzas Especiales Limón, to extort lime farmers in Michoacán, Mexico, impacting the lime industry, a significant economic driver in the region. The cartel manipulates lime prices through extortion, with proceeds funding its conflict against rival cartels. This extortion has led to increased lime prices and echoes similar criminal activities in the avocado industry. The cartel's actions have historical parallels with past resistance movements by local farmers against organized crime.

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Agricultural Extortion Organized Crime Cartel Violence

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Liam Cochrane is the ABC's Southeast Asia correspondent, covering Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam and Laos. Previously, the ABC's Papua New Guinea correspondent. Liam started journalism in Cambodia, as a reporter and later Managing Editor of the Phnom Penh Post. He has hosted Radio Australia's ...

Trekkers forced to 'donate' after peace deal fails

12 Nov 2007  |  South China Morning Post  |  English  |  Extortion

Tourists trekking in Nepal's Lamjung district are being coerced into making 'donations' by Maoist groups, despite a peace agreement prohibiting such actions. The United Revolutionary People's Council and the Young Communist League are enforcing these payments, sometimes using threats. While some trekkers feel threatened, others view the experience as less severe. The funds are purportedly for aiding martyr's families and improving conditions for Maoist fighters, though the exact use remains unclear.

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Extortion Tourism Political Conflict

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Umar Farooq is a multimedia journalist based in Peshawar, Pakistan. He has extensive experience working in conflict zones. He has expertise in reporting on Pakistan-Afghan-US affairs and militancy۔

TTP Has Become More Brazen In Challenging State’s Sovereignty

01 Dec 2023  |  The Friday Times  |  English  |  Extortion

The Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has established a shadow administrative structure in the Newly Merged and settled districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including a Ministry of Economic Affairs. The TTP issued a directive to contractors working with WAPDA and Mari Petroleum Company Limited, demanding engagement with their officials for economic operations. The pamphlet warns of violent repercussions for non-compliance. Extortion by the TTP has become rampant, with the police setting up a helpline to combat the issue. However, the public remains doubtful of effective police intervention. Businesses and contractors have faced threats, attacks, and financial losses due to the TTP's extortion demands. The TTP's justice department is also resolving disputes among locals, exploiting the administrative vacuum. The Army Chief's statement against non-state armed action contrasts with the on-ground challenges. The government is urged to implement the National Action Plan and improve infrastructure to address these issues.

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Extortion Terrorism Regional Governance

Carmen Gentile has written for some of the world’s leading publications including the New York Times, TIME, Newsweek, USA Today and many others. He has also produced online video reporting for The Times and TIME. He also regularly produces radio reports and has published numerous photos with his ...

Canseco Is Said to Seek Favor to Omit Name

24 Jan 2008  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Extortion

José Canseco, a former major league player and admitted steroid user, allegedly offered to keep Detroit Tigers outfielder Magglio Ordóñez's name out of his upcoming book in exchange for an investment in a film project. The F.B.I. did not open a formal investigation as Ordóñez did not wish to pursue the complaint. Canseco denied the allegations, while Ordóñez confirmed discussing Canseco's outreach with Tigers General Manager Dave Dombrowski. The book, 'Vindicated,' is set to be published by Simon & Schuster after being dropped by Penguin Group USA. Canseco's former ghostwriter, Don Yaeger, left the project due to concerns over the accusations Canseco planned to make.

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Extortion Baseball Steroid Use

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I'm a journalist based in Mexico City with 12 years of experience as a reporter and producer. I've collaborated with international media outlets such as BBC, The Financial Times, PBS, Vice News, Sky Sports and more, writing and editing text pieces, scripts for news videos in both English and ...

Valerie Hirsch is a Belgium french speaking journalist based in Johannesburg, South Africa, since 1996.

South Africa on the Verge of Becoming a Mafia State

27 Sept 2022  |  www.ouest-france.fr  |  French  |  Extortion

South Africa is increasingly plagued by organized crime, ranking 19th globally in the 2021 Organized Crime Index. Gangs are active in various sectors, including illegal mining, human trafficking, and cybercrime, with extortion becoming particularly rampant. Construction projects, such as a halted college in Cape Town, are frequently targeted by armed gangsters demanding protection money. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, leading to further impoverishment and gang activity. The article highlights the challenges faced by local businesses and the role of police corruption in the proliferation of crime.

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Extortion Organized Crime Gang Activity

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With ten years of experience, Ghanaian freelance journalist Zubaida Mabuno Ismail covers environmental, climate change, and gender issues. She is a media trainer, brand marketing consultant, ZAMI Reports managing editor, and Reporters Without Borders reporter in Ghana.

She has written articles ...

The Grand COVID-19 Testing Scam in West Africa

01 Apr 2023  |  CENOZO  |  English  |  Government corruption and extortion

The article is an investigative report on the alleged extortion by the governments of Ghana and Nigeria during the COVID-19 pandemic. It details how both countries, in contrast to Sierra Leone, exploited international travelers by enforcing mandatory COVID-19 tests at exorbitant prices, often in partnership with private companies. The report references the World Justice Project's 2020 findings on corruption risks during the pandemic and highlights the violation of International Health Regulations, which prohibit charging travelers for public health measures. It includes personal accounts from travelers who faced these exploitative practices and provides insights from officials like the Director General of the NCDC. The article also touches on the ECOWAS directive capping COVID-19 test fees and how Nigeria and Ghana ignored this, charging much higher rates. The piece is part one of a two-part series and is a collaborative effort by journalists from Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone.

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Government corruption and extortion COVID-19 pandemic COVID-19 testing for travelers International Health Regulations Travel restrictions and policies during COVID-19

Journalist,producer, fixer, searcher based in Islamabad/Peshawar with experience in both print and broadcast media. My roles include writing, editorial and reporting.  Utilising my established position within the local media infrastructure, I also contribute regionally and nationally with stories I ...

Paramilitary Force Raids MQM Headquarters in Karachi, Seizes Weapons and Detains Members

11 Mar 2015  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Extortion

The Sindh Rangers, a paramilitary force under Pakistan's Ministry of the Interior, raided the Karachi headquarters of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), seizing weapons and detaining party members. The MQM, which holds 23 seats in the National Assembly, has been accused of political violence and was involved in a 2012 Human Rights Watch report. The raid resulted in the death of one person and the arrest of 15, including Faisal Mota, a central MQM member. MQM claims the weapons were licensed and for protection against Taliban threats. The raid led to closures of schools, shops, and businesses in Karachi and other Sindh cities. MQM leader Altaf Hussain, in exile in London, condemned the raid, while PTI's Shireen Mazari and leader Imran Khan criticized Hussain and the MQM, linking them to past violence and extortion.

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Extortion Political raid Illegal weapons seizure Political violence International relations

Shaukat Korai is a Karachi based Multimedia journalist of Pakistan.

Anthony Langat is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.He specializes in reporting on human rights issues, governance, security and climate change

In Africa, being gay makes you a target for extortion

02 Jul 2015  |  The World from PRX  |  English  |  Blackmail and Extortion

The article discusses the rise of blackmail and extortion against LGBT individuals in Kenya, where homosexuality is illegal and punishable by up to 14 years in prison. Victims are often reluctant to report crimes due to fear of legal repercussions. Eric Gitari, the executive director of the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission, describes how criminals target gay people on social media and use recorded sex videos to extort money. Despite the risks, two men, Titus and Abdukadir, reported their blackmailers to the police with the help of an LGBT advocate from HOYMAS. The police have arrested four suspects, and a hearing is scheduled. The article also references a 2011 report by the International Gay & Lesbian Human Rights Commission on the prevalence of blackmail and extortion against LGBT individuals in Africa. Additionally, it highlights the efforts of Kenyan LGBT advocates like Dennis Nzioka, who set up an online platform to report such crimes, and the challenges faced by victims in seeking justice due to the criminalization of homosexuality.

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Blackmail and Extortion LGBT Rights Homosexuality Laws Human Rights Crime

Is a young enthusiastic multimedia journalist, based in South Sudan with a keen interest in writing environment and human interest stories among others.

He has worked for several media houses, such as (SSBC) government Tv, The witness Newspaper, Juba monitor newspaper, star tribune Newspaper, ...

“We are caged”: County traders cry foul over insecurity, extortionists

22 Feb 2022  |  The City Review South Sudan  |  English  |  Extortion

The article discusses the economic challenges faced by traders in Yei, Morobo, and Lainya counties in South Sudan. These challenges include insecurity, illegal taxation, and roadblocks that hinder the movement of goods and stifle small-scale businesses. The traders, particularly women, are struggling with high costs and limited access to markets due to these issues. Local officials, such as Aggrey Cyrus Kanyikwa, the commissioner of Yei River County, have promised to address these problems by discussing price controls, reducing taxes, and empowering local businesses with capital and land for agriculture. The article also mentions international support from organizations like UN Women, UNFAO, and UNDP, as well as a development plan funded by the African Development Bank, aimed at increasing female-led enterprises and providing financial access for micro and small enterprises (MSEs) through digital platforms.

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Extortion Economic Stability Insecurity Small-Scale Businesses Agriculture Trade Government Policy Infrastructure Development Youth and Women Empowerment International Aid

Ian Mapira is a journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Rogue Extortionists Violently Displace City of Harare Committee in Glen View: Chidawu

11 Jan 2022  |  enthusemag.com  |  English  |  Extortion

Rogue extortionists have displaced the legitimate City of Harare committee in Glen View, forming an illegal committee to extort fees from traders. Minister Oliver Chidawu condemned these actions, clarifying that the ruling ZANU PF party is not involved. The Minister is working with the Harare City Council to address space challenges for traders and restore order.

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Extortion Local Governance Illegal Activities

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Jonathan Miller is a television journalist based in Bangkok, Thailand. 

The following link has collated most of my television news and documentary reports plus some selected print journalism
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Foreign Affairs Correspondent with Channel 4 News (UK) for 20 years, covering Middle ...

Mayor and His Wife Are Guilty in Federal Extortion Case in New Jersey

30 Apr 2008  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Federal Extortion Case

The mayor of Guttenberg, David Delle Donna, and his wife, Anna, were found guilty of federal extortion and tax charges, involving accusations of receiving money and gifts from a bar owner involved in smuggling under-age girls. The trial featured testimony from high-profile witnesses, including a top aide to Governor Jon S. Corzine. The couple faces prison time and fines, with sentencing scheduled for September. The case highlights ongoing issues of political corruption in Guttenberg.

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Federal Extortion Case Political Corruption

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William Neal is a journalist based in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Report: Extortion in Syrian Prisons Funding Assad Regime

25 Jan 2021  |  OCCRP  |  English  |  Extortion

Since 2010, forced bribery payments to Syrian prison and military officials by families of detainees have likely reached around $900 million, turning forced disappearances and arrests into a state-benefiting industry. The Association of Detainees and the Missing in Sednaya Prison (ADMSP) reports that over 100,000 people have been forcibly disappeared and 250,000 arrested and released since 2010. The Assad regime, continuing tactics from Hafez Al-Assad's era, has systematized bribery payments, especially after losing control of large areas post-2012. Most arrests occur at military checkpoints, with Idlib being a significant source of detainees. International outcry has followed reports of mass executions and torture in Syrian prisons. The Syrian government condemns U.S. sanctions as 'crimes against humanity'.

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Extortion Syrian Conflict Human Rights Violations

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Judd-Leonard Okafor is a multimedia journalist at Daily Trust, where he works for both print and online platforms. 
He covers health, development, education and youth. Before joining Daily Trust, he worked at Confluence TV and Grace FM in Lokoja as a news reporter, presenter and editor. 
In 2014, ...

Passengers stranded as tricycle riders protest in Minna

02 Oct 2023  |  Daily Trust  |  English  |  Extortion

Tricycle riders in Minna, Niger State, initiated a warning strike to protest against extortion by police, Federal Road Safety Corps, and Vehicle Inspection Officers. The strike caused significant disruption, stranding passengers and blocking key roads. The drivers demand an end to daily extortion and excessive taxes, threatening to continue the strike if their grievances are not addressed. Efforts to get comments from relevant authorities were unsuccessful.

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Extortion Protest Transportation

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Kemi Olaoshun is a journalist and content writer based in Berlin, Germany.

Canadian sisters detained over cyberbullying and extortion

23 Dec 2016  |  Blasting News  |  English  |  Extortion

Two Canadian sisters, Jyoti and Kiran Matharoo, have been detained in Nigeria for allegedly attempting to extort Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola by threatening to expose his infidelity. The sisters, who are also accused of cyberbullying and running the now-defunct website NaijaGistLive, have admitted to blackmailing several wealthy men and living a luxurious lifestyle. They are currently in custody and have agreed to leave Nigeria after their trial concludes. Global Affairs Canada is providing consular assistance.

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Extortion Cyberbullying Legal Issues

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Matthew Omonigho is a journalist based in Warri, Nigeria.

Alleged ₦80m extortion: Police invite rights activist, Israel Joe over attacks on IGP, Egbetokun

01 Oct 2023  |  Daily Post Nigeria  |  English  |  Extortion

The Nigeria Police Force has initiated an investigation into the alleged extortion of eighty million naira by the Rivers State Police Command. Human rights activist Israel Joe has been invited for allegedly attacking the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Egbetokun. The police have urged the public to provide any relevant information and warned against fraudulent individuals exploiting the reputation of senior officers. Israel Joe criticized the police for focusing on issues that led to the extortion rather than the extortion itself and expressed his commitment to continue advocating for justice.

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Extortion Police Investigation Human Rights

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Liam Scott is an independent journalist based in Washington, D.C. He focuses on human rights and mass atrocities, China, press freedom, and disinformation.

Nusrat Sidiq is a journalist based in Indian administered Kashmir. She extensively writes on legal, human rights, gender, social issues and environment.Her work has been published in different international media outlets like the Newhumanitarian, NewArab,Anadolu News agency and many more.

HC directs police to probe into filing of fake complaints for extortion

13 Oct 2021  |  Kashmir Reader  |  English  |  Extortion

The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has directed the Director General of Police to gather information from Senior Superintendents of Police regarding a racket in Kashmir involving the filing of fake complaints for extortion. The court emphasized the need for a thorough police investigation to address this issue. The litigation, initiated by Bal Kishan Gupta, highlighted the operation of this racket in four districts of south Kashmir, targeting outsiders for illegal extortion. The court noted the lack of effective measures taken by the authorities and called for a status report on the steps being taken to address the problem.

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Extortion Legal Investigation

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A journalist specialising in Nigeria’s Northeast and the Lake Chad region, Al'amin Umar reports on the human impact of climate change and conflict, with a focus on Borno State. His work examines the intricate intersections of environmental shifts, conflict, and sustainability, bringing attention to ...

Fishermen In Nigeria’s North East Either Pay Levies To Terrorists Or Risk Assault, Death

15 Apr 2024  |  HumAngle  |  English  |  Extortion

In Nigeria's North East, fishermen in Baga are forced to pay levies to the terrorist group ISWAP to access fishing waters, risking assault or death if they refuse. The extortion has significant economic impacts, with terrorists earning substantial revenue from fishermen and traders. Despite military presence, the terrorists maintain control over deeper waters, exploiting the situation to fund their activities. The Nigerian government's attempts to curb this by banning fish transport have led to socioeconomic hardships, while ISWAP continues to provide essential services, positioning itself as a local authority.

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Extortion Terrorism Local Economy

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