[REVISION HISTORY]

Ongoing crackdown on gangs, extortion, and illegal mining

13 recorded revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-24 12:46 UTC → 2026-10-25 19:15 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Peruvian security forces have maintained a multi-regional offensive against organized crime, illegal mining, and extortion. Throughout mid-2026, operations targeted various criminal networks, including the dismantling of the “gota a gota” loan gang in Piura, the “La Red del Silencio” extortion ring in Lima and Callao, and “Los Malditos Carroñeros” in San Martin de Porres. Gang-related violence remains prevalent, with notable incidents including the dismantling of “Los tentáculos de Los Pulpos” in Trujillo and “Los Gatilleros de León” in Pueblo Nuevo. Extortion via explosives continues to plague the country. Recent actions dismantled “Los Goteros del Norte” in Sullana and “Los Fríos de Parcona” in Ica following bombings. In La Libertad, the gang “Los Lechuzas” has threatened truck drivers with arson, while the “Los Patrones del Cupo” network was targeted in San Martin de Porres. High-profile robberies, such as a S/500,000 theft in Chiclayo and gold bullion heists in Surco, underscore the persistent threat to commerce and individuals. Illegal mining remains a critical security and environmental concern. In Pataz, the “Triángulo de las Bermudas” operation and an explosive attack on the Poderosa mine highlight the volatility of the region. By late September 2026, a surge in violence linked to mining was reported, with 636 homicides recorded across Pataz, Ananea, Inambari, and Puerto Inca. In response, the PNP dismantled the “Los Explosiveros de Piás” gang, seizing 1,549 explosives. Environmental and social impacts have intensified. In Madre de Dios, mercury contamination has entered the food chain, and satellite data identified new deforestation in the Tambopata National Reserve. ~~Investigations have identified 249 indigenous and riverside communities evaluated for impact, with an additional 702 at risk. Recent enforcement~~ Illegal mining announcements reportedly rose from approximately 800 in 2020 to over 2,500 in 2024, penetrating protected areas like Bahuaja Sonene National Park. In the ~~Inambari district~~ Yuyapichis district, mining has destroyed ~~36 dredges~~ over 100 hectares of forest and ~~35 camps, while operations in~~ encroached upon the ~~Nanay River basin targeted mining equipment.~~ Panguana Biological Station.

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