Trapito
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Trapito is the Argentinian term for an extortionist who runs a protection racket in which they ostensibly guard parked cars, while actually vandalizing or stealing the cars of those who refuse to pay.
Trapitos ask for a substantial "tip" for guarding cars that motorists park on the street. The name trapito comes from the Spanish word for a small piece of cloth or rag, which the trapitos use for identification. If a driver refuses to pay the trapito will vandalize or steal the car.[1] The amount of money is arbitrarily set by the trapito, not by the person who parks the car. The charge starts around $40 and can rise to $250 in locations near popular nightspots, attractions or events.[1]
The NGO "Defendamos Buenos Aires" estimates that there are nearly 1,000 trapitos in Buenos Aires. Their activities are linked to the barra brava groups of football fans.[1]