Peru’s authorities suspect that the recent fatal shooting of an Indonesian embassy employee in Lima was a contract killing. Zetro Leonardo Purba, a 40-year-old official working at the Indonesian embassy in Peru, was shot to death while riding his bicycle home from work on Monday night. CCTV footage reveals that the assailant shot Purba at close range, directly in the head, and escaped on a motorcycle.
The event has shocked and angered locals, as foreigners are not often the target of such violent acts in Peru. So far in 2025, more than 1,500 homicides have been reported, marking a 20% increase compared to last year. Peruvian Interior Minister Carlos Malaver identified the incident as a contract killing, stating that nothing was stolen and the victim was targeted specifically. The Indonesian embassy in Lima was offered increased police protection by Peruvian authorities following the incident.
Indonesia’s foreign minister, Sugiono, confirmed the identity of the victim as a chancery officer at the embassy in Lima and expressed his deepest condolences. He requested a thorough, transparent, and quick investigation to ensure justice for Purba’s family, including his wife and three young children.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/sep/03/indonesian-embassy-official-shooting-lima-likely-contract-killing-says-peru-government-ntwnfb
