Peru Roundup: Security, campaign violence, border tensions

President José Jerí blames past governments for the crime surge

In a session of the National Citizen Security Council, José Jerí rejected any responsibility for the current rise in criminality, instead placing the blame on previous governments and several former Interior Ministers. He argued that structural failures inherited from past administrations created today’s security crisis. Jerí insisted that his government is working to reverse this deterioration and promised that the current administration will leave a meaningful “legacy” in the field of citizen security. He reiterated that current challenges stem from long-standing institutional weaknesses rather than recent decisions.

Presidential candidate Rafael Belaúnde survives attack on his vehicle

Rafael Belaúnde, presidential candidate for Libertad Popular, was wounded when gunmen fired at his vehicle in Cerro Azul, leaving the car with multiple bullet impacts. Despite the severity of the attack, Belaúnde was not seriously injured and has begun formal procedures by filing a police report. The incident has fuelled concern about political violence during an already contentious pre-electoral period. The attack occurs as Peru moves towards the 2026 elections, heightening fears over the safety of candidates and the broader democratic environment.

Peru calls for calm over disputed Peru-Chile border territory

Amid rising public debate over the precise definition of the Peru–Chile border, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a formal statement clarifying the government’s position on territorial limits. The statement seeks to ease tensions and reinforce Peru’s official interpretation amid renewed scrutiny of the boundary line. Authorities emphasise that border issues require responsible handling to protect diplomatic stability. The episode highlights the sensitivity of territorial matters in the relationship between the two neighbouring countries.

Landslide in Iparia leaves at least 12 dead, dozens missing

A major landslide struck the fluvial port of Iparia in the Ucayali region, causing a section of the riverbank to collapse and dragging two boats underwater. At least 12 people, including children, were confirmed dead, while dozens more — among them Indigenous residents, medical workers and teachers — remain missing. The disaster has prompted urgent rescue efforts as authorities and families await updates. The scale of the incident has shocked local communities and intensified calls for improved disaster-risk prevention in riverine areas.

Agrarian exports surge 212 %

Peru’s agrarian exports expanded by an estimated 212% over the past nine months, reaching nearly US$9.8 billion, according to industry data. This growth is largely attributed to strong international demand for high-value products such as avocados, blueberries, cocoa and fresh grapes. The increase reflects sustained momentum in the country’s agricultural sector despite broader economic uncertainty. Analysts view the performance as a sign of renewed dynamism, reinforcing the importance of agro-exports in Peru’s external trade.