Lima: Peru’s interim president, Jose Jeri, has declared a 30-day state of emergency in the capital, Lima, as his administration struggles to contain growing unrest and a surge in violent crime.
In a televised address, Jeri said the measure was necessary to restore order following days of protests that had rocked the city and contributed to the downfall of his predecessor, Dina Boluarte. “Wars are won with actions, not words,” he said, pledging a shift in security strategy from defence to offence to combat criminal networks and street violence.
Under the emergency declaration, the government can deploy the army alongside police to patrol the streets and restrict public gatherings, including demonstrations. The move also suspends certain constitutional rights, such as freedom of assembly.
According to official figures cited in the decree, extortion cases have increased to an estimated 18,000 this year, driving a corresponding increase in homicides. Between January and September, police recorded 1,690 killings, up from 1,502 during the same period last year.
Jeri assumed office on October 10 after Congress voted to remove Boluarte, accusing her of failing to curb crime and corruption. He has vowed not to step down despite mounting demonstrations calling for his resignation.
Protests intensified last week, turning violent on Thursday when one person was killed and about 100 others injured, including several police officers and journalists. The demonstrations, largely led by Gen Z activists, have demanded an end to political corruption and improved public safety measures.
Earlier this year, Boluarte had also imposed a 30-day state of emergency following the killing of popular cumbia singer Paul Flores, who was fatally shot in an apparent extortion attempt on a bus. That earlier measure, however, did little to reduce violence.
