The state of emergency in Peru is extended by 30 days following a series of murders linked to extortion gangs. The state of emergency has been in effect since mid-March, after the well-known Peruvian singer Paul Flores was shot to death. He and his band are said to have been subjected to extortion attempts.
The extension applies to the metropolitan region of Lima and the nearby port of Callao.
Extortion is a problem in Latin America and has reached alarming proportions in Peru. Since January, more than 450 murders have been reported, according to government figures.
Under the state of emergency, the government can, among other things, suspend civil liberties, such as the right to assemble.
