Peru’s Defense Minister says 720 planes entered the country for drug activities this year. This news comes as Peru renews a radar deal with the U.S.
The old deal paused 20 years ago, making radar upkeep hard, mainly in the Amazon.
The new radar will help the army identify illegal planes. The minister discussed a recent fight with narcoterrorists.
Four soldiers died in the clash. These radars will also help combat terrorism.
Stabilizing the Apurimac, Ene, and Mantaro River Valley (VRAEM) is a main goal. This area is a hotspot for armed groups and drug cartels.
The army did over 2,000 operations in VRAEM this year. They closed six illegal airfields and grabbed 17 tons of cocaine.
In October, the number of emergency districts in VRAEM will go down. The affected area will shrink from 25,000 to 6,000 square kilometers.
During an emergency, the army works with the police. Some rights may be suspended.
The minister also talked about a recent operation in VRAEM. It targeted drug-carrying cars. The chase lasted several hours.
The army seized 500 kilograms of cocaine. Four soldiers and two narcoterrorists died. Three other soldiers got hurt.
Background
Peru has long struggled with drug trafficking, especially in the Amazon. The U.S. has often partnered with Peru to fight this issue.
This new deal brings back a 20-year-old radar agreement. Both countries aim to cripple drug operations using better technology.
The VRAEM is not new to drug and terror issues. Armed groups like Sendero Luminoso have operated there for years.
This makes it a key focus for the Defense Minister. The area’s geography makes policing it tough. Dense forests and remote locations are challenges.
In the past, many anti-drug operations led to clashes. Sometimes, these fights ended in tragedy, like the recent loss of four soldiers.
Despite setbacks, Peru remains committed to this fight.