Peru’s government has declared a 30-day state of emergency in the capital Lima and neighboring Callao province amid a surge in violent crime. The move follows the deadly shooting of popular singer Paul Flores, who was traveling in a bus when it came under fire from unknown assailants.
The crime wave, which includes extortion rackets, has prompted President Dina Boluarte to call for tougher penalties, including the death penalty for murderers. However, Peru’s laws only allow execution for convicted traitors.
The emergency decree grants authorities more powers to deploy the military to combat lawlessness and follow recent trends of declaring emergencies when crime spikes. The declaration comes as authorities have made progress in arresting gang members blamed for the violence.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/peru-declares-emergency-capital-tackle-crime-wave-2025-03-17