Peru Declares State of Emergency Amid Rising Violence
Peru’s president announced a state of emergency in the capital city on Monday and authorized the deployment of military personnel to assist police in addressing a surge of violence, spurred by public outrage following the killing of a prominent singer.
Emergency Measures Implemented
President Dina Boluarte’s administration issued a decree specifying a 30-day state of emergency. This entails restrictions on certain rights, including freedom of assembly and the right to movement.
Consequently, law enforcement and the armed forces will possess the authority to detain individuals without a judicial warrant.
Escalating Crime Rates in Peru
Peru has witnessed an upswing in homicides, violent extortion, and assaults on public spaces in recent months. Police recorded 459 killings from January 1 to March 16, and 1,909 extortion reports in January alone.
The Killing of Paul Flores Sparks Outcry
Public anger intensified after the killing on Sunday of Paul Flores, the 39-year-old lead singer of the cumbia group Armonia 10.
In Congress, opposition lawmakers have called for a vote of no confidence against Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez, citing what they perceive as a lack of a plan to combat the rising violence. The vote is anticipated to be debated during the Congress’ plenary session later this week.
Flores was fatally shot early Sunday when assailants attacked the bus carrying him and his bandmates after a concert in Lima.
Additional Violent Incidents
Cumbia is a musical genre prevalent in Latin America, typically characterized by the use of drums, maracas, and other instruments.
The assault on the popular singer was not the only violent incidence over the weekend.
On Saturday, an explosive device detonated at a restaurant in the capital, injuring at least 11 individuals.
Boluarte’s government previously implemented a state of emergency from September to December, seeking to curtail violence.