LIMA – Peru’s government declared a state of emergency in the capital Lima on Monday, but deployed soldiers on the streets to quell the recent surge in violence claiming the lives of popular singers.
The death of well-known cumbian musician Paul Flores sparked a popular rage early on Sunday after the bus he was traveling fired from an unknown armed attacker. Police say Flores died after he was shot.
A wave of crime, including the jumping of the Tor racket urged President Dina Bolalto to declare that he wanted the murderer to face the death penalty, despite Peru allowing only the execution of convicted traitors.
The 30-day emergency order applies to both Lima and neighboring Karao states, giving authorities additional authority to deploy troops to combat lawlessness.
In recent years, Peruvian officials have repeatedly declared emergency situations when criminal conduct and social unrest surges.
The government has been on Monday for weeks after being criticised by criminal groups that often target companies, including transport companies, even though authorities promoted recent gang arrests.
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By Marco Aquino
