Peru: Interior Ministry begins third destruction process for over 11 tons of seized drugs

15:51 | Lima, May. 21.

The Ministry of Interior (Mininter), through the General Directorate against Organized Crime (DGCO), on Thursday began the third process of destroying drugs seized by the Peruvian National Police (PNP) in 2026.

On this occasion, the operation will conclude with the incineration of 11,305.294 kilograms of different types of narcotics.

The event took place at the PNP's Special Operations Directorate base in Lima's Ate district and was attended by Cabinet Chief Luis Arroyo and Interior Minister Jose Zapata.

The officials stressed that the destruction of the illicit substances reflects the Government's firm commitment to combating drug trafficking and organized crime.

"This is not merely a symbolic act; it is a clear demonstration that the country's institutions are acting decisively to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law," the Cabinet Chief expressed.

"Every kilogram destroyed means less danger for our families, fewer resources for criminal organizations, and greater hope for building a safer Peru," he added.


In turn, Minister Zapata highlighted the work carried out by the PNP, through the Anti-Drug Directorate (Dirandro), noting that more than 39 tons of illicit substances and over 8 tons of controlled chemical inputs have been seized so far this year.

He noted that authorities have dismantled 52 criminal organizations and 33 gangs linked to drug trafficking.

"There is no doubt that drug trafficking is one of the main threats to citizen security and the stability of the State," Zapata stated.

"That is why, from the Interior Ministry, we have been acting decisively through our Peruvian National Police within the framework of the National Citizen Security and Fight against Crime Plan 2026–2028," he emphasized.

Upon completion of this third process, the Interior Ministry's DGCO will have destroyed more than 22 tons of narcotics, mainly cocaine-based drugs and cannabis sativa ("marijuana").

Authorities said this represents a direct and significant blow to criminal networks engaged in drug trafficking operations in Peru.

(END) NDP/LIT/MVB

Published: 5/21/2026