Fredy López Mendoza assumes command of Peru's National Police

PNP leadership change organized crime strategy police modernization Peru security policy criminal investigation

Lieutenant General Fredy López Mendoza has officially assumed command of the National Police of Peru (PNP), replacing Óscar Arriola, who requested retirement. The transition was formalized by President Keiko Fujimori and Interior Minister César Astudillo.

López Mendoza’s administration will prioritize intelligence and criminal investigation to combat organized crime, specifically targeting extortion, kidnapping, and homicide. He emphasized that the PNP must modernize its tools to address contemporary threats, moving away from “tools of the past” to utilize technology and specialized training.

Interior Minister César Astudillo presented a five-pillar strategy to Congress focused on crime prevention, territorial control, border security, police strengthening, and judicial coordination. President Fujimori expressed full political and economic support for the new command, while also stressing the need for integrity and the prevention of corruption within the force.