Peru’s Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that anti-government protests since last December have resulted in 42 deaths, 531 injuries, and 329 arrests. The figures reflect initial investigations into the nationwide demonstrations that have unfolded across the country.
The Ministry of Interior released a statement outlining that among the deceased there were 41 protesters and one police officer. It also reported 355 civilians and 176 security personnel injured, with one minor among the detainees. The ministry noted that the information comes from preliminary inquiries led by criminal, crime prevention, and organized crime prosecutors.
The Office of the Ombudsman added that 41 protesters died in direct clashes with law enforcement, while seven others died in incidents linked to traffic accidents and road closures. The authorities have opened multiple investigations to determine who is responsible for the loss of life during the protests.
Authorities indicated that 17 tax files concern those injured, and there are 80 additional files related to alleged crimes against public administration, riot, defiance of authority, and obstruction of public services. Three more tax files address attacks on Public Ministry offices in southern provinces. Overall, 11 preliminary inquiries have begun into the violence that occurred in Puno, Cusco, Arequipa, Apurímac, Ucayali, and Lima regions.
The Ministry of Public Affairs emphasized that investigations will be conducted with full respect for the law, upholding human rights with order, determination, and speed.
Late on Thursday, authorities arrested Rocío Leandro Melgar, head of the Ayacucho People’s Defense Front, along with its vice president Stefany Alanya Chumbes and secretary Alejandro Manay pilaca. The detainees were transferred to Lima. The Interior Ministry stated that Leandro Melgar is identified as a participant in the The organization has historical links to past violence and was previously linked to the Sendero Luminoso group. The ongoing inquiries in Ayacucho seek to uncover the circumstances surrounding the looting and burning of Public Ministry, Judiciary, Bar Association, and other government offices on December 15 and 16.
Protesters continue to demand the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, the dissolution of Congress, a path to early general elections, and the establishment of a constituent assembly.