Peru reports rise in adolescent homicides and firearm violence

In Peru, criminal violence involving minors is escalating, with data showing a significant rise in adolescent homicides. According to records from the National Death System (Sinadef), 67 adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17 were killed by August 23, 2026. This figure already exceeds the total number of adolescent homicides recorded during the entirety of 2024.

Data specialist Juan Carbajal noted that firearms are the primary driver of this lethality. Of the 67 recorded deaths, 46 were caused by projectiles from firearms, meaning approximately seven out of ten cases involved guns. The current trend suggests that 2026 may end with higher homicide rates for minors than previous years. The situation highlights a growing pattern where criminal organizations recruit and utilize minors for various illegal activities.