Peruvian Navy Lieutenant dies during illegal mining operation

Second Lieutenant Álvaro Ernesto Cáceres Chávez of the Peruvian Navy (Marina de Guerra del Perú) died following an accident during an anti-illegal mining operation in the Madre de Dios region.

The incident occurred in the Balata sector while the officer, a member of the General Directorate of Captaincies and Coastguards (DICAPI), was conducting inspection duties alongside a representative from the Public Ministry. During the intervention, which successfully neutralized several motors used for illicit extraction, Lieutenant Cáceres slipped while walking along a riverbank and fell into a deep pool. Despite immediate rescue attempts by the prosecutor on site, the weight of his tactical equipment and weaponry, combined with the water's force, prevented a successful rescue, and he died from immersion.

The Peruvian Navy has launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances and causes of the accident. The institution expressed its condolences to his family and colleagues, highlighting his commitment to service.