LIMA, Peru — Interior Minister Juan José Santivañez has voiced his strong support for a proposed law to declare a state of emergency for the National Police of Peru (PNP). This move comes as the nation grapples with escalating crime rates and seeks to bolster its law enforcement capabilities.

During his address at the international forum "United Against Crime," organized by the Legislative Branch, Minister Santivañez highlighted the severe limitations faced by the PNP. "I absolutely agree that the National Police needs to be declared in a state of emergency, not only to equip it but also to purchase more vehicles, improve its infrastructure, and strengthen its resources," he stated.

The minister pointed out that the PNP's current force of 140,000 officers has remained stagnant for the past 20 years, while Peru's population has surged from 20 million to over 30 million. This disparity has resulted in a critical shortage of approximately 60,000 personnel.

In addition to manpower shortages, the PNP is plagued by a lack of essential equipment, an aging vehicle fleet, and inadequate infrastructure. To address these deficiencies, the government has recently procured 7,152 rifles, with the first batch soon to be delivered. Furthermore, contracts are underway for the acquisition of 40,000 pistols, bulletproof vests, and GPS tracking devices.

"In just nine months, we have managed to increase the police vehicle fleet by 3,000 units through purchases and donations," Santivañez noted.

On the operational front, the minister reported that the Territorial Control Plan has led to 320,000 arrests in 2024, a significant increase from the 220,000 arrests made in 2023. However, he expressed concern that only 4% of those arrested have been incarcerated, attributing this to the Public Ministry.

The private sector has also stepped in to support the fight against crime, donating 300 million soles, which will be allocated to enhance security measures.

Congressman Eduardo Salhuana, who chairs the Congressional Committee on Defense, has introduced a bill to declare a 120-day state of emergency for the PNP. The proposed legislation would empower the Executive Branch to provide the police with priority equipment, services, and logistical resources to combat crime effectively.

This emergency declaration aims to provide the PNP with the necessary tools and support to tackle the growing challenges of crime and ensure the safety of Peruvian citizens.