Peru Deploys Military Under State of Emergency Following Singer's Murder
The killing of Paul Flores has intensified public outcry over extortion-related violence, prompting a 30-day emergency declaration in Lima and Callao.
- Paul Flores, lead singer of Armonía 10, was killed in an extortion-related attack on his band's bus after a concert, highlighting the severity of Peru's crime wave.
- The Peruvian government declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and Callao, deploying military forces and restricting civil liberties to combat surging violence.
- Authorities reported 459 murders and over 1,900 extortion cases in early 2025, with criminal groups like Tren de Aragua suspected of contributing to the violence.
- Opposition lawmakers have called for a vote of no confidence against Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez, citing a lack of an effective anti-crime strategy.
- Public frustration continues to grow as residents question the long-term effectiveness of emergency measures in addressing systemic crime issues.