The situation surrounding informal car guards in Córdoba is once again raising alarms. Employees at Sanatorio Allende have reported that the so-called "naranjitas" demand monthly payments from them in order to allow them to park on public streets. The amounts reach 30,000 pesos (66 pounds) per worker and are collected without any oversight or receipt.
Andrea, one of the affected employees, explained that the pressure is constant, especially for those who work night or extended shifts. "They charge us 15,000 pesos (33 pounds) per block, and if you change spots, they charge you again," she said. The workers state that this situation has been ongoing for some time, despite complaints filed with the authorities.
Additionally, the victims describe an atmosphere of harassment and fear. According to their testimony, refusing to pay can have consequences for their vehicles, which often end up scratched or damaged. They say this practice has become normalized due to the lack of government intervention.
Daily extortion in public spaces
The car guards operating in the Sanatorio Allende area act without authorization and treat the space as if it were their property. The victims state that payments are made in cash or by transfer, with no official record or supervision. "Once I refused and had to stay up all night watching my car," a medical center worker recounted.
In the surrounding area, the conflict is exacerbated by violence among the naranjitas themselves. Neighbors and employees report fights, threats, and even attacks with bladed weapons. "Last year they stabbed each other, the police came, removed them, and a few days later they were back," they said.
