Andina

EU condemns crime in Peru's VRAEM region, says it must not go unpunished

Photo: AFP

Photo: AFP

10:32 | Lima, May. 26.

The European Union (EU) has condemned the murder of 16 people, which occurred on Sunday night in the town of San Miguel de Ene, located in the Valley of Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM).


"The EU condemns the killing of civilians —including children— in the VRAEM region. This is a heinous crime that cannot go unpunished," Borrell stated.

He also said he is confident that the Peruvian justice system will conduct an investigation to find the culprits and demand accountability.

Additionally, the EU expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and the Peruvian people.

The attack has been attributed to the terrorist organization known as Sendero Luminoso (Shining Path).

Initially, 14 fatalities were reported. However, after arriving at the scene, the Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office confirmed the death of two additional individuals. The deceased included four minors.

The Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office transferred the bodies to the town of Pichari —located in La Convencion Province of Cusco region— for legal procedures.

On Monday, Peruvian President Francisco Sagasti expressed his condemnation and rejection of the killings in the Valley of Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM) and ordered the deployment of law enforcement agents in the area to ensure that this terrorist act does not go unpunished.

(END) VVS/CVC/RMB

Published: 5/26/2021