Peru Protest: Nearly 20 Wounded In Clash Between Demonstrators, Police. Key Points

At least 20 people were injured, including four police officers, in skirmishes between demonstrators and police in the southern Peruvian city of Andahuaylas on Saturday, according to CNN, news agency ANI reported.

According to the Ombudsman’s office, a number of persons have been detained. However, the precise number of inmates was not disclosed.

According to CNN, the Ombudsman’s office reiterated its “appeal to the populace not to resort to violent measures during their protests” and requested that “any action to restore public order be carried out within the parameters of the legislation governing the use of force.”

Key Points:

• According to the National Police, the two police officers kidnapped by the protesters have been freed and are being assessed by medical specialists.
• The reason for Saturday’s demonstration is unknown, according to the Peruvian Interior Ministry, although Andahuaylas is one of numerous towns in the country where citizens took to the streets this Friday in favor of former President Pedro Castillo, who was deposed earlier this week.
• Castillo is accused of attempting to dissolve Peru’s Congress and demand new elections. Castillo was deposed on Wednesday as a result of the allegations.
• Castillo’s move was dubbed a coup by Peruvian politicians. According to CNN, he was impeached by MPs and detained for the purported act of rebellion all on the same day.
• Following his impeachment, Peruvian Vice President Dina Boluarte took over as President. On her first day in office, Boluarte ruled out early elections.
• On Thursday, the Supreme Court issued a seven-day preliminary arrest warrant for Castillo.
• According to CNN, Castillo is facing a slew of investigations into whether he exploited his position to enrich himself, his family, and his closest associates by peddling influence to seek favor or preferential treatment, among other allegations.
• The former leader has rejected all charges leveled against him, claiming they are the product of a witch-hunt launched against him and his family by factions that refused to recognize his election victory. He has consistently demonstrated a willingness to comply with any probe.
• Hundreds of protesters marched through Lima’s streets, demanding Castillo’s release. Police fired tear gas and battled with hundreds of his supporters on Thursday.
• Students, workers, and left-wing political groups have called for a demonstration in Lima on Saturday, following the conclusion of the day’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final matches in Qatar.