Peru: President arrested in Lima following failed attempt to dissolve Congress /update 1

Event

President Pedro Castillo was arrested in Lima Dec. 7 after announcing he would unconstitutionally dissolve Congress, establish a new emergency government, and implement a 22:00-04:00 curfew nationwide. In response to the arrest, Congress overwhelmingly voted to declare Castillo to have vacated the presidency; Vice President Dina Boluarte is expected to be sworn in as president imminently.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy an increased security presence near prominent government buildings, including Congress and the Presidential Palace. While the arrest of Castillo reduces the likelihood of major unrest, Castillo's supporters and detractors may continue to hold demonstrations; clashes are possible, especially if police attempt to forcibly disperse protesters. While the government has not formally canceled the curfew announced by Castillo, it is highly unlikely to enforce it, and the Official Gazette, which must publish all orders before they take legal effect, has not published it.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.