Investigation links former Montesinos operator to murder of ex-congressman

Peruvian authorities have identified José Aybar Cancho, a former operator for Vladimiro Montesinos, and former police officer César Rodríguez Cereneo as the alleged masterminds behind the murders of former congressman Óscar Medelius and businessman Juan Huidobro.

The investigation, led by the Dirincri and provincial prosecutor Irene Mercado, suggests the killings were a planned attempt to seize control of a 580-hectare land concession. The territory, which holds non-metallic mining rights, is highly valued for its potential real estate development. The victims had reportedly refused to sell the land they administered.

The attack occurred on February 10, 2025, in Carabayllo, when gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire more than 18 times on the victims' vehicle. Security footage showed suspects monitoring the area hours before the shooting took place.