Peru Initiates Crime-Fighting Offensive Following Bus Drivers’ Strike That Paralyzed Lima, Reports Reuters

By Marco Aquino

LIMA – The Peruvian government has declared a 60-day state of emergency in various districts around Lima to combat a surge in crime, as announced by Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen. This decision comes amid ongoing strikes by bus drivers who are protesting for better security measures.

During a press conference, Adrianzen specified that the state of emergency will affect 12 districts in metropolitan Lima and the nearby Callao province. This initiative will mobilize the armed forces to support police efforts in tackling the recent increase in extortion incidents that have been troubling the capital.

“Extortion has become more visible due to recent issues with transport operators, but we are also seeing many small business owners and entrepreneurs falling prey to this crime,” he stated.

On Thursday, public transportation services were significantly disrupted, leaving many commuters stranded at bus stops. In response to the situation, the government has suspended classes in the metropolitan area and is encouraging companies to allow employees to work remotely or arrive late for their shifts.

“We are striking due to the insecurity and the government’s lack of empathy regarding this wave of extortions,” stated Hector Vargas, who leads a transportation union that represents 63 companies.

Police reported that a bus driver was murdered on Sunday after resisting an extortion attempt, and another passenger was injured during the attack. Since late August, four drivers have lost their lives to similar violence.

At the press conference, Defense Minister Walter Astudillo revealed that the government plans to present a bill to Congress aimed at reclassifying crimes such as hired killings, kidnappings, extortions, and illegal firearm possession as “urban terrorism,” which would increase penalties for these offenses.

He also mentioned plans to expand the capacity of a high-altitude prison designated for those convicted of urban terrorism and indicated that the government may consider extending the state of emergency to additional regions in the country.