They throw rocks onto windshields on highways for years here (and not only on highways). Usually after 7 PM. No surprise if they invented to throw something else. The purpose is the same, you stop (or lose control of the vehicle and crash), they rob you. Welcome to paradise.
I have not read this entire thread yet, but yes this is real . it happened to us on Autopista 5 .. they threw like a hard Nut or something, then pulled us over like they were in charge .
But the scam used to be more Subtle . they claim they saw a Part of the Car fall off, and wanted you to go to THEIR Mechanic to fix it
Usually something stupid they would show you like a part for the inside of the Transmission .. lmfao
I guess to see how Gullible you are . the Scam must work cuz they have been doing a Variation of this for many years ..
I was driving to Puerto Plata and a car was in the next lane. It was a rent-a-car back I first came and my frigging Diesel Hyundai Santa Fe had problems (never by a Korean diesel)
I wasn't looking but my car ran over what I think was a milk jug.
Then the car next to me honked and animatedly pointed and I pulled over.
Water was dripping from the frame, but you could not tell from where, and the passenger was pointing up into the engine saying I had a problem but he was on the way to his friend's mechanic shop and I should follow and they could fix it cheap.
I said no I had a mechanic in Puerto Plata (I did) and was going there to check on my car that was in the shop, which was true.
Turns out my car wasn't finished and I drove the rent a car for a few more days and there was no problem.
This right here ,. is exactly how it goes down, but with slight variations as to what they throw or set up ..
And yes , they target Rental Cars ..