Alcalde Canales propone pena de muerte para frenar ola de sicariato y delincuencia

Insecurity in Lima: A Growing Concern

Overview of Crime Statistics

• The discussion begins with alarming statistics on crime, specifically noting 322 reported cases of contract killings (sicariato) in Metropolitan Lima this year.

• Extortion against transportation companies is highlighted, with two companies ceasing operations due to threats.

Government Response and Proposals

• A security council session was held involving the National Prosecutor Juan Carlos Villena and police officials, where mayors demanded stricter measures against crime.

• Miraflores Mayor Carlos Canales proposed reinstating the death penalty for severe crimes, sparking a debate on its viability.

Legal Implications of Reinstating the Death Penalty

• To reinstate the death penalty, Peru would need to withdraw from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the San José Pact.

• The death penalty was abolished in 1978 except for treason; it was completely removed from law by the 1993 constitution.

Special Intelligence Units Proposal

• Lima's Mayor Rafael López Aliaga suggested creating a special intelligence group (GEIN Metropolitano), similar to past efforts against terrorism.

• This unit aims to combat sicariato and extortion effectively, leveraging experienced personnel like General Baella.

Public Sentiment on Security

• There is a growing public outcry regarding insecurity; mayors are collaborating to address these issues through citizen safety meetings.

• Recent surveys indicate that 76% of respondents feel unsafe leaving their homes, reflecting widespread anxiety about crime levels.

Escalation of Fear Among Citizens

• The sense of insecurity has escalated significantly; citizens report feeling threatened even during routine activities like walking outside.

• An overwhelming majority (81%) of residents in Lima express feelings of insecurity when navigating different districts.

Public Transport Attacks in Peru

Overview of Public Transport Violence

• The speaker discusses the alarming frequency of attacks on public transport systems in Peru, specifically mentioning companies like Santa Catalina and Roma.

• A report from "El Comercio" reveals that there is at least one attack on the transportation system every 24 hours in the country.

• The situation appears to be worsening, with an increase in daily incidents reported.