Peruvian National Police Chief Suspended for 18 Months Amid Investigation

Commander General Víctor Zanabria Temporarily Removed from Office

Peru's Judicial Branch has ordered the temporary suspension of General Víctor Zanabria, the Commander General of the Peruvian National Police (PNP). This significant decision mandates an 18-month removal from his high-ranking position. The suspension is directly linked to an ongoing investigation into a contentious case widely referred to as 'Policías albañiles' (Bricklayer Police Officers), which has brought the integrity and conduct within the national police force under intense public scrutiny.

The 'Policías albañiles' case centers on serious allegations that various police sub-officials were improperly utilized for construction or maintenance activities, reportedly outside the scope of their official duties and under questionable circumstances. This situation has raised profound questions concerning the potential misuse of public resources and possible abuses of authority within the police institution. The judicial decision to suspend the head of the PNP underscores the gravity with which these allegations are being treated by the country's legal system.

Further Allegations and Leadership Transition

Adding another layer of concern to the unfolding situation are grave claims that at least 16 police sub-officials, who bravely provided testimony in the case against General Zanabria, have reportedly received death threats. An attorney representing these alleged victims has brought these serious accusations to the attention of the authorities. If these threats are substantiated, they would point to a deeply troubling attempt to intimidate witnesses and obstruct justice, further complicating the already sensitive investigation.

General Zanabria's suspension creates an immediate leadership vacuum at the pinnacle of the PNP. This development necessitates a prompt and orderly transition in command to ensure the continuous operational effectiveness and stability of the national police force, which is crucial for public safety and order. Initial reports suggest that General Óscar Arriola is being considered as a potential candidate to assume the role of Commander General, either on an interim or permanent basis, to guide the institution through this challenging period.

What happens next

General Zanabria is required to step down from his command for the duration of the 18-month suspension. The judicial and internal investigations into the 'Policías albañiles' case are expected to proceed with full rigor. The Peruvian National Police will likely announce the appointment of an interim or permanent replacement for the Commander General in the immediate future to ensure continuous leadership. Furthermore, authorities will be under pressure to thoroughly investigate the serious allegations of threats against witnesses, prioritizing their safety and ensuring the integrity of the entire investigative and judicial process. The outcomes of these inquiries could significantly influence police reform efforts and public confidence in law enforcement across Peru.