Protests in Peru following the impeachment and arrest of former President Pedro Castillo have again resulted in serious clashes. “We regret that the number of injured continues to rise and that the protests are carried out with violence,” said Alberto Huerta, Ombudsman for Human Rights in the capital Lima, in a tweet last night (local time).
More than 13 wounded were taken to various hospitals and several people were arrested. According to Peruvian broadcaster RPP Noticias, more than 6,800 security forces were deployed in the center of the capital Lima.
Police used tear gas and government opponents threw stones. Several dozen people have died in the South American country since protests began in December.
The protesters, many from the country’s impoverished south, are demanding the resignation of interim president Dina Boluarte, the dissolution of Congress and the release of jailed Castillo. The former village school teacher wanted to avoid a no-confidence vote in December and dissolved the congress. Parliament then removed him from office. He was arrested on attempted coup charges and is in custody.