Lima: Peru’s government has declared a state of emergency in the capital, Lima, deploying soldiers to the streets in response to a surge in violent crime that claimed the life of a well-known singer.
The killing of cumbia musician Paul Flores early Sunday has sparked widespread outrage. The artist was traveling by bus when unidentified gunmen opened fire, according to police reports. Flores sustained fatal gunshot wounds in the attack, authorities confirmed.
Peru's government declared a state of emergency in the capital Lima and deployed soldiers to the streets to help quell a recent surge of violence that claimed the life of a popular singer https://t.co/xgUE9EeEtC pic.twitter.com/xfG2CIasaj
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The rising crime wave, which includes a surge in extortion-related violence, has prompted President Dina Boluarte to express a controversial stance, stating that she would support the death penalty for murderers. However, under Peru’s current legal framework, capital punishment is only applicable for acts of treason.
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The government’s 30-day emergency decree covers Lima and the neighboring Callao province, granting authorities expanded powers, including military deployment, to curb escalating lawlessness.
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Peruvian officials have resorted to emergency declarations multiple times in recent years to address surges in criminal activity and social unrest. The latest measures follow weeks of intensifying violence attributed to organized crime groups that frequently target businesses and public transportation networks, despite law enforcement efforts to crack down on gangs.
