Criminals Steal Food and Animals from Families Affected by 5.1 Magnitude Earthquake in Junín

Families in Peru's Junín region, still reeling from a 5.1 magnitude earthquake, are facing a new wave of distress as criminals target their damaged homes. In the aftermath of the tremor, which left many homeless and exposed to cold temperatures, opportunistic thieves are reportedly entering damaged residences to steal essential supplies like food and livestock, as well as any salvaged belongings.

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I sleep outside and they come in here. They will take the little I have.

The thefts are occurring while dozens of families are forced to sleep in tents or makeshift shelters due to fear of aftershocks and the destruction of their homes. Residents of Chongos Bajo and surrounding areas report that criminals exploit the situation, entering unoccupied homes during the night and early morning hours to take items crucial for survival. The stolen goods include staples like corn and chickens, further exacerbating the plight of the earthquake victims.

Adding to the insecurity, residents express fear of armed perpetrators and lament that the criminals show no compassion for their vulnerable situation. The lack of lighting and damaged infrastructure in the affected areas are believed to facilitate the thieves' actions. Many survivors are now struggling not only with the physical destruction of their homes but also with the need to protect what little they have left.

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We are scared. What if they arrive armed? We are sleeping on the street and the criminals don't care that we are poor and huddled together.

In response, affected communities are urgently requesting enhanced security measures, including the permanent deployment of National Police and Army personnel. They also propose a curfew to restrict movement during nighttime hours. While some residents have organized neighborhood watches, they acknowledge the limitations of these efforts against organized groups operating under the cover of darkness. Meanwhile, Civil Defense personnel are continuing to register affected individuals to facilitate humanitarian aid distribution.

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We want patrols or, if not, a curfew from 11 or 12 at night so that cars don't circulate anymore.