Peru Declares State of Emergency After Protests Over Crime, Corruption

The state of emergency in Peru has been declared by interim President Jose Jeri following weeks of violent protests across the country. The announcement came on Tuesday after escalating unrest in Lima and the nearby port city of Callao, where thousands have taken to the streets demanding justice and action against corruption and organized crime.

President Jeri confirmed that the state of emergency in Peru would begin at midnight on Wednesday and last for 30 days. Under this emergency measure, the government has the authority to deploy the army to patrol the streets and to restrict freedom of assembly and other civil rights. This decision marks the first major action taken by the interim president since assuming office nearly two weeks ago.

The state of emergency in Peru comes amid growing public anger over corruption scandals and rising crime rates that have left communities feeling unsafe. Jeri addressed the nation through a televised speech, saying, “Crime has increased disproportionately in recent years, causing immense pain to thousands of families and hindering the country's progress. But that ends today. We begin changing the narrative of insecurity in Peru.”

He emphasized that the state of emergency in Peru would enable the government to take aggressive measures to combat organized crime, restore public trust, and bring peace back to Peruvian streets. “We are moving from the defensive to the offensive in the fight against crime,” Jeri added, vowing to “regain peace, tranquility, and the confidence of millions of Peruvians.”

The South American nation has been engulfed in political turmoil for years, with frequent changes in leadership deepening instability. The state of emergency in Peru follows the impeachment of former President Dina Boluarte earlier this month. Lawmakers removed Boluarte amid widespread accusations of corruption and her inability to control the crime wave sweeping the nation.

In the past month alone, more than 200 people—including protesters, journalists, and police officers—have been injured in violent clashes. One protester was reportedly shot dead by police during a demonstration in Lima. The protests are largely youth-driven, fueled by frustration over government corruption and the worsening security situation.

Authorities said the state of emergency in Peru would also help protect critical sectors like transportation, which has been heavily impacted by organized crime. At least 47 bus drivers have been killed this year in what officials believe are extortion-related attacks. The murder of a popular musician earlier this year, linked to gang activity, had already prompted a partial state of emergency in parts of Lima from March to July.

Interim President Jeri, who serves as Parliament Speaker as well, will govern until July 2026. His leadership faces immense challenges, as the state of emergency in Peru highlights not only the country’s deep-rooted political crisis but also the urgent need for reform in law enforcement and governance.

Peru, which has seen seven governments in the past decade, now stands at a critical crossroads—fighting to restore order, rebuild trust, and protect its citizens from the spiraling wave of violence and corruption that has shaken its democracy.