A garlic merchant in Trujillo was the victim of extortion in the early hours of last Thursday when criminals, allegedly from 'Los Pulpos,' detonated an explosive device at his home. The violent act, captured by security cameras in El Progreso, near the La Hermelinda market, sought to force a payment of 50,000 soles under threats against his life and the lives of his family. The explosion damaged the gate, door, and windows of the merchant's house, as well as affecting three neighboring homes. The victim had received threatening WhatsApp messages for three days prior, indicating that he was being watched. PNP Criminalistics personnel have launched an investigation.