Peru's Interim President Declares 30-Day State of Emergency in Lima, Callao Amid Rising Crime Protests

Peru's interim President José Jerí has declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and the neighboring port city of Callao to combat escalating crime and violent protests. This measure allows the military to patrol the streets and restrict constitutional rights such as freedom of assembly, aiming to restore peace amid widespread extortion, killings, and public unrest. Jerí emphasized shifting from a defensive to an offensive stance against crime, seeking to regain public trust after weeks of antigovernment protests and political instability following the impeachment of former President Dina Boluarte. The emergency declaration follows recent violent clashes that resulted in casualties and injuries, reflecting deep frustration with the ongoing insecurity and government turnover. While Jerí's administration promises a new approach, critics note that previous emergency declarations have failed to significantly reduce crime. The world watches to see if this bold step will stabilize Peru or exacerbate tensions in the troubled South American nation.