Special Report

Paraguay Bank Collapse Leaves Volunteer Firefighters Struggling

Published

By Andy Hsueh/Bryn Thomas

The collapse of Paraguay's Ueno Bank has left volunteer firefighters known as "bomberos" struggling to cover operating costs after losing access to their savings. With fuel and other essential expenses at risk, the Sixth Fire Company says it may soon struggle to respond to emergencies. The bank's collapse has also triggered widespread protests and a political crisis that has seen former President Santiago Pena ousted and charged with crimes.