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Peru: One dead and over 100 injured during protest in Lima
At least one person was killed and more than 100 injured, mostly police officers, during clashes that broke out Wednesday evening in Lima, following a major protest against the surge in extortion and targeted killings across the country, authorities said.
Acting President José Jeri confirmed on X that 55 police officers and 20 civilians were injured, citing figures from the national human rights ombudsman. The unrest comes less than a week after the removal of President Dina Boluarte, ousted amid a deep security and political crisis. Jeri, who also heads Congress, has taken over as interim president until July 2026.
Thousands of demonstrators marched in Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, and Puno, demanding government action against rising crime that has claimed dozens of lives in recent months. Many young protesters from the “Gen Z” movement joined the rally, waving the flag of One Piece, the best-selling Japanese manga, symbolizing rebellion against entrenched power.
As night fell, clashes erupted near Congress when some protesters tried to breach police barricades. Security forces responded with tear gas, shields, and batons, while some demonstrators threw stones and fireworks.
Police spokesperson General Oscar Arriola denounced the “high level of violence” and said surveillance footage would be used to identify “criminals who infiltrated a peaceful protest to sow chaos.” Ten people were arrested, and several officers were hospitalized.
Women’s rights groups also joined the march, protesting against President Jeri, who has previously faced – and denied – a rape allegation that was later dismissed. Activists unfurled a massive Peruvian flag inscribed with the message: “José Jeri, president of Peru, rapist.”