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Peru Issues International Arrest Warrant for Former PM Betssy Chavez Over 2022 Coup Attempt
Peru has issued an international arrest warrant for former PM Betssy Chavez, now seeking asylum in Mexico’s embassy, over her alleged role in the 2022 coup attempt involving ex-president Pedro Castillo. Prosecutors seek up to 25 years in prison as diplomatic tensions escalate.
A Peruvian court on Friday issued an international arrest warrant for former prime minister Betssy Chavez, who is currently seeking asylum inside the Mexican embassy in Lima as she awaits trial for her alleged involvement in the 2022 attempted coup.
Chavez, 36, served as prime minister under former president Pedro Castillo, who was removed from office in December 2022 after attempting to dissolve Congress—an action widely described as an attempted coup d’état.
Diplomatic ties between Peru and Mexico deteriorated following Castillo’s ouster. Castillo, a former teacher and trade unionist often referred to as Peru’s “first poor president,” was arrested while heading toward the Mexican embassy to request asylum with his family. He was later charged with rebellion and abuse of authority, while Mexico granted asylum to his wife and children.
Chavez was charged alongside Castillo, and both went on trial in March. While Castillo has remained in preventive custody since his impeachment, Chavez was previously granted bail.
Earlier this month, she sought asylum at the Mexican embassy as authorities considered Mexico’s request for safe passage.
Peru has since cut diplomatic relations with Mexico, accusing the country of interfering in its domestic affairs by granting Chavez asylum. Both nations have recalled their ambassadors.
Prosecutors Seek Lengthy Prison Terms
Peruvian prosecutors are requesting 25 years in prison for Chavez and 34 years for Castillo for their alleged roles in the plot.
Friday’s ruling also ordered that Chavez be held for five months of pretrial detention upon arrest, citing her as a flight risk.
Following the warrant, police increased security around the Mexican embassy in Lima.
National police chief Oscar Arriola dismissed any prospect of breaching the embassy grounds, saying, “We respect the right to asylum or refuge… We comply with the norms established in international standards.”
Prime Minister Ernesto Alvarez likewise emphasized that Peru “respects international law and is not capable of exercising violence… and much less breaking international laws regarding the immunity of diplomatic premises.”
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