Peru’s Escalating Security Crisis Amidst Failed Emergency Measures

Peru’s security crisis deepens despite President Dina Boluarte’s emergency measures, marked by persistent crime rates and corruption allegations against officials. The declaration of emergency in Lima and Callao, aimed to control violence, has not curtailed homicides. Public dissatisfaction is rampant, with growing calls for transparency and effectiveness in governance as the administration grapples with repeated failures in addressing crime.

Peru’s ongoing security crisis has reached alarming levels, despite repeated emergency interventions initiated by President Dina Boluarte. Public skepticism regarding the government’s effectiveness grows as crime rates continue to surge and allegations of high-level corruption hinder governance efforts.

On March 17, Boluarte declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and Callao, aiming to control increasing violence following the assassination of renowned cumbia singer Paul Flores. This decision, effective March 18, enables police to maintain public order with military assistance while suspending constitutional protections such as free movement and assembly.

Notably, the crime rate remains unyielding. In succession to the emergency proclamation, at least three more murders occurred, casting doubt on the government’s security protocols. This declaration marks the second such response within six months, the prior one being initiated last September due to extortion concerns among transport workers. Critics deem these measures reactionary rather than a strategic approach to combating organized crime

Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez, a pivotal figure within this crisis, faces multiple censure motions in Congress, which are anticipated to be debated from March 26 to 29. With approximately 70 potential votes aligned against him, he risks becoming another casualty in Boluarte’s administration, marking the seventh removal of an Interior Minister.

The Fuerza Popular party has expressed public concerns regarding Santiváñez’s effectiveness, stating that “the grave security crisis facing the country evidences the failure of Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez’s strategy.” Santiváñez’s disapproval rating is an alarming 79%, yet Boluarte continues to publicly support him, raising questions about her judgment.

The urgency for action was exacerbated following the violent murder of Paul Flores, who fell victim to an armed attack on his band’s tour bus post-performance. Despite prior threats of extortion, security measures were noticeably inadequate.

In a controversial statement, Boluarte suggested the consideration of implementing the death penalty for violent crimes, disregarding constitutional and international treaty barriers. This statement exacerbates concerns regarding the government’s coherent strategy in addressing security issues.

Public sentiment has further been described as skeptical, as the Human Rights Ombudsman highlights that past states of emergency have inadequately reduced crime rates. They are demanding solid evidence supporting the government’s emergency decision, affirming that effective policies should be built on empirical data rather than serving political purposes.

The recent statistics portray a harrowing reality, with over 2,000 homicides recorded in 2024 alone and 123 in just the first month of 2025. Major cities continue to suffer from rampant extortion, contract killings, and gang violence from transnational entities like the “Tren de Aragua.”

Santiváñez himself is embroiled in corruption accusations, with allegations of soliciting bribes in judicial matters. Emerging evidence, including testimonies from protected witnesses and documented communications, indicate his involvement in unethical practices, including facilitating transfers for convicted individuals.

Instead of pursuing accountability, President Boluarte has opted to defend Santiváñez, labeling the allegations as “political harassment.” Bloomberg highlighted Boluarte’s diminished approval rating of 5%, deeming her “one of the world’s most unpopular leaders,” compounded by her absence at the World Economic Forum amid rising security concerns.

The administration’s failure transcends ineffectiveness, exhibiting authoritarian tendencies through the emergency powers allowing security forces to enter residences without warrants and impeding public gatherings—warnings of potential rights abuses have been promptly raised. Furthermore, reports suggest a conspicuous absence of military and police presence at critical locations during the initial enforcement phase of the emergency.

Peru’s security predicament is part of a larger trend observed across Ecuador and Colombia, wherein organized crime is significantly on the rise. However, Peru’s government reaction, characterized by ill-conceived measures and evident corruption, brings into sharp focus its capacity to confront this crisis effectively.

As parliament prepares for discussions regarding Santiváñez’s tenure, a broader question looms over Peru’s ability to escape the entrenched cycles of violence, corruption, and governmental failure. Under Boluarte’s leadership, the prospects appear increasingly dire.

In summary, Peru’s profound security crisis remains unresolved despite multiple emergency declarations by President Dina Boluarte, which have been met with widespread skepticism. Concerns over corruption within the government and ineffective crime strategies highlight the challenges Peru faces in combating organized crime and restoring public safety. With rising disapproval of key officials such as Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez and ongoing violence, the future remains uncertain for governance and security in the nation.

Original Source: www.intellinews.com