Peru Declares State of Emergency to Combat Rising Crime

Peru's President Jose Jeri has declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and Callao to combat increasing crime rates. The decision includes military involvement to aid police efforts. This follows recent protests and is a continuation of prior measures under former leadership, yet effectiveness remains debated.

On Tuesday, President Jose Jeri of Peru announced a 30-day state of emergency in the nation's capital, Lima, and the adjacent province of Callao, citing a need to address escalating crime rates.

The emergency status allows the armed forces to join police in efforts to maintain public order, following protests that caused significant unrest last week, including one death and over 100 injuries. In a televised statement, Jeri emphasized a shift from defensive to offensive strategies in crime management.

As he navigates his early days in office, Jeri faces mounting pressure from Generation Z and civil society groups demanding effective crime-fighting measures. Despite similar past measures showing limited success, Jeri continues this approach as part of his administration's primary objectives.

(With inputs from agencies.)