- Peru’s President Boluarte’s residence raided in corruption probe
- Authorities search for undeclared luxury Rolex watches, sparking political turmoil
- Boluarte defends herself; faces scrutiny over Rolex watch ownership
Police stated that President Dina Boluarte of Peru’s residence was seized as part of an ongoing corruption investigation involving undisclosed luxury watches.
Citing a police document, the AFP news agency reported that approximately forty officials participated in the early Saturday morning raid in quest of Rolex watches that Boluarte had not declared.
The collaborative operation conducted by the prosecutor’s office and the police was broadcast on Latina, a local television station. The Associated Press news agency reported that televised images depicted government agents from an investigative team bursting into the president’s residence with a sledgehammer.
Oncoming traffic was obstructed by officers in the Surquillo district of the capital, Lima, as government agents surrounded the residence. At the moment, the president is not at his residence.
The operation, which was authorised by the judiciary at the attorney general’s office’s request, “is for the purpose of search and seizure,” according to the police.
“Palace personnel furnished every amenity requested for the diligence,” the presidency wrote on the social media platform X, adding that the investigation was conducted “normally and incident-free.”
The searches were, however, criticised by Peruvian Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen.
“The serious political noise that is being generated has severe repercussions for investments and the entire nation,” he wrote on X. “The events of the past few hours constitute unconstitutional and disproportionate behaviour.”
Adrianzen reported that the president was in her abode within the government palace and, when summoned, would provide statements to the prosecutor’s office. Additionally, he stated to the RPP radio station that neither Boluarte nor the ministers intended to resign.
“Wash hands”
Later on Saturday, Boluarte, 61, called the police raids of her residence and the presidential palace “arbitrary, disproportionate, and abusive” in a speech to the nation.
“Having assumed office with a spotless record, I have decided to retire in 2026,” stated the president.
This month, the authorities investigated her in response to a report by the local news outlet La Encerrona that Boluarte had worn multiple Rolex watches to official events.
In response to inquiries regarding the source of her extravagant timepieces, given her public salary, she reportedly stated that they resulted from diligent effort dating back to her 18th year. She further advised the media against delving into personal affairs.
Mariana Sanchez of Al Jazeera, reporting from Lima, stated that experts value the timepieces at approximately USD 500,000.
“Before she was president or vice president, Boluarte oversaw a government institution for which she earned a monthly salary of approximately $1,000; that amount has since increased to $4,300 per month,” she explained. “Therefore, many individuals believe she lacked the financial resources to purchase these watches.”
This week, Attorney General Juan Villena criticised Boluarte’s request for a two-week postponement of her court appearance, emphasising that she must assist the investigation and provide evidence of purchase for the timepieces.
Additionally, he cautioned against the disposal or destruction of the three Rolex watches and stated that Boluarte was obligated to produce them for investigation.
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Later, the government comptroller declared that it would examine Boluarte’s asset declarations from the previous two years to identify any irregularities. The president has steadfastly defended herself throughout the ordeal.
Vice president and social inclusion minister Boluarte ascended to power in July 2021. He was sworn in as president in December 2022, succeeding former president Pedro Castillo, whose attempt to dissolve Congress and rule by decree resulted in his swift removal and detention.
The ensuing protests resulted in the fatalities of at least 49 individuals.
Critics contend that Boluarte’s administration has exhibited a progressively authoritarian inclination to avert calls for early elections and collaborate with congressional members on legislation that may compromise the autonomy of Peru’s judicial system.
