Peruvian military presence at Minera Poderosa camp under scrutiny

Journalistic investigations in Pataz have raised questions regarding the role of the Peruvian Armed Forces in relation to the mining company Minera Poderosa. Photographic evidence suggests that over one hundred members of the Unified Command of Pataz (CUPAZ) are stationed within the company’s camp, where they conduct daily activities such as dining, resting, and coordinating operations.

This finding contradicts previous statements by Defense Minister Rafael Belaúnde Llosa, who asserted that the military's function is not to guard Poderosa's facilities. While the CUPAZ command was established to combat criminal organizations and illegal mining in the province, the permanent presence of troops within a private corporate complex has sparked debate over the boundaries between logistical security support and the direct protection of private infrastructure.

Historical records indicate a long-standing link between the mining sector and security institutions. Reports show that between 2003 and 2020, various mining and oil companies paid the National Police of Peru over $18 million for security services, with Poderosa contributing more than S/3 million to such agreements.