11:15 | Tumbes (Tumbes region), Jun. 3.
Government authorities from Peru and Ecuador met in Tumbes with representatives from the
United States embassies in Lima and
Quito to strengthen regional border security and reinforce the fight against transnational crime.
After conducting a joint visit to the Tumbes–Huaquillas border region, including the Aguas Verdes checkpoint, the importance of cross-border collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking, criminals, and other illicit goods was underscored.
Representatives from the Peruvian National Police (PNP), the National Superintendence of Customs and Tax Administration (SUNAT), and the National Superintendence of Migrations participated in the visit on behalf of Peru.
Meanwhile, the Ecuadorian delegation included officials from the Ecuadorian National Police (PNE), the Ministry of Interior, the National Customs Service (SENAE), and the Ecuadorian Migration Service.
In turn, the United States delegation was composed of representatives from the Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
The U.S. Embassy in Lima highlighted that the active participation of all parties reflected a shared commitment to strengthening institutional cooperation at the border.
During the visit, the group toured both official and informal crossing areas, including the Aguas Verdes checkpoint in northern Peru.
The authorities assessed vulnerabilities, shared experiences regarding operational challenges, and discussed the next steps to formalize mechanisms for information exchange and joint operations.
Peruvian authorities expressed concern over resource limitations, especially in high-traffic areas like Aguas Verdes, where only 10 border police agents are assigned on rotating three-month shifts.
Despite having 976 border patrol personnel nationwide, Peru faces intense pressure on its northern border, where 137 active illegal crossings used for smuggling have been identified.
The officials emphasized the need for increased funding and equipment from the central government to strengthen frontline defense.
The visit —which took place last week— concluded with a trilateral working session focused on enhancing interinstitutional coordination, as well as developing sustainable and institutionalized approaches to cross-border cooperation.
(END) NDP/MAO/MVB
Published: 6/3/2025