Peru: Mass arrests during Putumayo security operation July 16 /update 1

Event

A security operation targeting narcotrafficking groups was carried out on the morning of Monday, July 16, in Putumayo (Loreto region), located along the northern border with Colombia. A total of 51 suspected members of criminal organizations were arrested, predominately Colombian nationals.

The operation coincided with the start of a 60-day state of emergency declared by the Peruvian government for the province due to the presence of dissident members of the former Colombian guerrilla group FARC (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia). The measure is set to remain in effect for a period of 60 days from July 16.

Under the state of emergency, some constitutional rights will be suspended, including the freedoms to assemble and move freely, and police will be able to search persons and homes without a warrant. Furthermore, the National Police and the armed forces will take control of security in the area, notably to secure the border. 

Context

A peace deal between the FARC and the Colombian government was ratified in November 2016, officially ending an armed conflict that killed more than 220,000 people over five decades. However, hundreds of dissident ex-FARC militants who refused to demobilize remain operational in various parts of Colombia and neighboring countries, involved in drug trafficking, kidnapping, and other organized criminal activities.

Advice

Individuals in Putumayo are advised to closely monitor the situation and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. Due to security concerns, some foreign governments advise their nationals against travel to areas along the Colombian border, in addition to the VRAEM and Huánuco regions.