Gang assassinations of bus drivers continue

For the second time this month, bus operators on Route 29, which goes between Ilopango and San Salvador, refused to drive their routes. This work stoppage occurred after the fourth murder this month of a bus driver or conductor on Route 29. The murders are all blamed on gangs imposing a penalty for transportation companies which do not pay the "tax" imposed by the gangs. The authorities report more than 100 murders of bus drivers and conductors during the course of 2005. The bus operators are demanding that the government provide greater security on these routes.