Argentina on Monday appeared gripped by crime. This was the scene in Concordia where one person was killed and at least 40 injured as looters descended on local businesses. In Mar de Plata, the targets were wide-ranging --- sportswear shops, electronics stores and supermarkets.

The latest victim was reportedly electrocuted as they tried to enter a store in the early morning. It's the third deadly looting incident in a week. All of this takes place as police here strike to demand higher wages.

Officer Leandro Coutño says the situation has gotten out of hand.

SOUNDBITE: Police Officer Leandro Coutño saying:

"We never got a reply at any moment. We always ask for dialogue and unfortunately yesterday, we had an outcome we did not want."

Gangs, say locals have been emboldened by the strike. Government calls for harmony had little impact on the unrest --- which for many here --- evoked memories of the country's economic crisis that rocked the country 1