The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights expressed today, Tuesday, his “concern” about the events of violence raised yesterday against the demonstrators in JuliacaPuno region.
“Since December 7, 2022, 40 people have died and 518 have been injured in clashes with the Police and the FF.AA. Among the deceased, according to official reports, at least 17 people died on Monday – including a minor – in Juliaca (…) and a police officer died this Tuesday when his vehicle was set on fire,” the statement says.
In this sense, the supranational body requested that the acts of violence be investigated and those responsible be punished.
“We urge the authorities to carry out research immediate, impartial and effective actions on the dead and injured, holding those responsible to account and guaranteeing victims access to justice and reparation,” the document added.
They also called on the security forces to “comply with the rules of human rights and ensure that force is only used when strictly necessary and, in such case, fully respecting the principles of legality, precaution and proportionality”.
“We remember that the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly must be respected and protected, since they are essential characteristics of democratic life,” they said.
Prosecutor announces opening of new investigations
The National Prosecutor, Patricia Benavidesannounced today, Tuesday, that the Public ministry has decided to open new tax folders against the president of the republic In Boluarte as a result of the 18 deaths registered yesterday during the protests.
“There is already an open investigation of preliminary proceedings corresponding to the events that occurred in December. And today, we are making the decision to open a new tax file,” he said. Benavides from Trujillo.
“The function of Public ministry is firm to investigate and that no death goes unpunished (…) Today another investigation is being opened to the high officials who are responsible for everything that is happening,” he added.
However, the head of the Public Ministry did not specify what would be the alleged crimes for which the new tax files would be opened.
“He’s in qualifying. He will communicate at his opportunity ”, he indicated in this regard.
According to a report from the Diresa Puno, 17 people died during the demonstrations that took place yesterday in Juliaca, among them, a minor. Besides, the Ombudsman reported a newborn deceased due to road blockades.