Andina

Peru's PM: Thorough investigation must identify responsibility for Trujillo tragedy

00:30 | Lima, Feb. 24.

Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen expressed his condolences to the families of the victims of the roof collapse that occurred at Real Plaza Trujillo shopping center in the northern Peruvian city last Friday.

Similarly, the Cabinet chief stated that this unfortunate event "must lead to a thorough investigation and the identification of those responsible, with severe sanctions."

"Responsibility must lie with the guilds and the owners. They must be the first to come forward, rather than merely making excuses and announcing assistance for the victims. They must commit to the population to determine what happened and who is responsible," Adrianzen indicated.

The Prime Minister made these statements after participating in the event marking the 30th anniversary of the Alto Cenepa Operations, a commemoration led by the President of the Republic, Dina Boluarte, at the Army Headquarters in Lima's San Borja district on Saturday. 

Likewise, the Cabinet chief reiterated that the National Government is committed to promoting private investment, provided that it is carried out responsibly toward society.

"We want private investment with social responsibility, integrity and, above all, empathy for those who have now been affected," he added.

Adrianzen also reported that, as soon as the tragedy occurred, the Executive Branch mobilized members of the Peruvian National Police, the General Corps of Volunteer Firefighters, and the Army to the aforementioned shopping center in Trujillo to carry out rescue operations and provide assistance to the affected citizens.

In addition, a mission led by Defense Minister Walter Astudillo and composed of Ministers Cesar Vasquez (Health) and Leslie Urteaga (Development-Social Inclusion) arrived in the northern city to adopt immediate measures on the ground in response to the emergency.

La Libertad Regional Health Manager, Anibal Morillo, reported that the total number of fatalities stands at six, while the number of injured is 81. Of these, 42 have already been discharged, and 39 remain hospitalized in public and private healthcare facilities.

(END) NDP/GDS/MVB

Published: 2/24/2025