Peru: Police arrest opposition figures during protest in Lima Oct. 16

Event

Peruvian police arrested Pier Figari and Ana Herz, two key allies of imprisoned Popular Force leader Keiko Fujimori, during a demonstration in Lima on Tuesday, October 16. Roughly 1500 supporters of the main opposition party marched through Lima to demand the release of Keiko Fujimori, who was arrested on October 10 on charges of "aiding a criminal organization" after allegations arose that she laundered campaign contributions from a Brazilian construction company. Peruvian prosecutors also ordered the arrests of two additional Fujimori campaign staffers as part of a probe into the opposition leader's activities during the 2011 general election. Anti-government protests are possible in the near-term, notably in the capital Lima. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected near demonstration sites.

Context

The detention order details the use of Popular Force resources for the "laundering of assets […] in the context of the 2011 general elections." Tensions between Popular Force supporters and parties allied with the sitting president remain elevated, particularly as the government has broadened its probe into money laundering by Keiko Fujimori in 2011 and ahead of a contentious December referendum which aims to increase anti-corruption measures and reform the legislature. Additional protests staged by supporters of the Popular Force are likely in the near-term as the government continues its investigation into the party's election activities.

Advice

Individuals in Lima, and those in Peru more generally, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests as a precaution, remain vigilant for signs of civil unrest, and adhere to instructions by local authorities.