After a popular cumbia singer was killed in an extortion attack on a bus, authorities in Peru have declared a state of emergency and deployed troops to patrol the capital, Lima.
Peru’s President Dina Boluarte made a decree on Monday, giving police and military the power to detain people without restriction. This comes after an increase in violence and criminal activity in the area.
Paul Flores, the victim, was traveling on a bus when it was attacked by assailants who tried to extort the operator. This was a result of unrest caused by criminal groups who target businesses, including transport companies.
There was also an explosion at a restaurant that injured at least 11 people, leading to public outrage and a crackdown by the government.
Paul Flores, the victim, was traveling on a bus when it was attacked by assailants who tried to extort the operator. This was a result of unrest caused by criminal groups who target businesses, including transport companies.
There was also an explosion at a restaurant that injured at least 11 people, leading to public outrage and a crackdown by the government.
Crimewave
Peru has seen a surge in killings, violent extortion, and attacks on public places in recent months. There have been 459 killings and 1,909 extortion reports in January alone.
President Boluarte has called for murderers to face the death penalty, though it is currently only applicable to convicted traitors.
Opposition lawmakers have requested a vote of no confidence against Minister of the Interior Juan Jose Santivanez, claiming that he lacks a plan to address the violence.
