In Peru, at least one civilian was killed and dozens of police officers were injured in nationwide protests against recently elected President Jose Jeri, according to Reuters.
The demonstrations erupted on Wednesday night as protesters expressed anger at alleged government corruption and the authorities’ inability to address rising crime, citing these as key reasons for their opposition to Jeri.
As a result of a clash with local police, at least one man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, died from a gunshot wound. Police said Luis Magallanes, a currently suspended officer, fired the shot after being physically attacked by the protesters. Authorities promise that the murder will be carefully investigated.
President Jeri expressed condolences for the death and blamed the violence on «delinquents» disrupting peaceful protests. He promised a full investigation and said he would ask the country’s Congress for emergency powers to improve public security, possibly overhauling police and prison systems, Reuters reported.
These protests present the first significant test for Jeri’s interim presidency, which runs until July 2026, following the ouster of former President Dina Boluarte, who replaced another ousted President, Pedro Castillo, amid scandals and discontent.
