Peru has declared a state of emergency in response to a surge in violent crime in the capital city, Lima. The government, led by President Dina Boluarte, has deployed troops on the streets to patrol areas and maintain law and order. This move follows a week of escalating violence, including the fatal shooting of popular cumbia singer Paul Flores during an extortion attack on a bus.
The state of emergency will last for 30 days and grant police and military personnel increased powers to detain individuals without judicial oversight. Authorities have reported a significant increase in killings, violent extortion, and attacks on public places in recent months. The government has also expressed its intention to impose the death penalty on murderers, although this is not currently permitted under Peruvian law.
Opposition lawmakers have called for a vote of no confidence against the Minister of the Interior, citing concerns over the government’s handling of the crisis. This move could further destabilize an already volatile situation. The declaration marks the third state of emergency in recent years, highlighting the ongoing struggle to address crime and public safety in Peru.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/18/peru-declares-state-of-emergency-as-violent-crimewave-engulfs-lima