With the aim of strengthening public safety and the fight against crime in Peru,
expressed support for imposing tougher and more stringent penalties on extortionists.
In an interview with a local magazine, the high-ranking official said one of the objectives of the transitional government, led by President Jose Balcazar, is the implementation of the National Citizen Security and Fight against Crime Plan 2026–2028.
"The core of this plan lies in integrated forces, which include not only the Police but also the Armed Forces," Arroyo stated, noting that these specialized teams are deployed in different parts of the country.
"For now, there are 27. In Lima, there are three or four, and the rest are in the provinces, where they are tasked with guarding vehicle depots," he said, reiterating that the plan is comprehensive and nationwide, and includes monitoring criminal activity with an emphasis on intelligence and technology to achieve its objectives.
"We have 6,500 personnel under the Sentinel Plan, who patrol on foot, in vehicles, and carry out investigative work. Routes are being monitored by these integrated task forces, which have recently been deployed nationwide," he indicated.
In that regard, the Cabinet chief said security for transport operators will be strengthened through the installation of 40,000 cameras on 8,000 buses in Metropolitan Lima and Callao region, while their number will be gradually increased in other Peruvian regions that already have these devices.
Police intelligence and technology
The Prime Minister said investment in police intelligence will continue to be promoted, noting that the institution currently has state-of-the-art technology and geolocation devices.
He added that various support measures for victims and orphans resulting from extortion attacks against transport operators are being evaluated, including Beca 18 (Scholarship grant program), among others.
On another note, Arroyo reiterated that another pillar of this government is to ensure a clean and transparent electoral process. He also ruled out changes to the Cabinet.
Regarding the situation of Petroperu, he indicated it is a strategic state-owned oil company where actions are being taken and results will be seen very soon. In this regard, he denied that the government’s injection of S/500 million (about US$145 million) constitutes a bailout.
Finally, when asked about the procurement of a fleet of aircraft for the Air Force, the Prime Minister said it is a process that dates back to previous administrations.
"Every country in the world that moves toward sustained development must ensure its security. We have to renew our fleet, which is obsolete," he pointed out.