Explosive Device Detonates at Home of Elderly Residents in Arequipa; Owners Deny Involvement in Disputes
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An explosive device detonated at the entrance of a home occupied by elderly residents in Arequipa, Peru, early Tuesday.
- The explosion caused damage to the property but no injuries, and residents stated they had no known enemies or involvement in illicit activities.
- Police are investigating the homemade explosive device and seeking the perpetrator, while neighbors recalled a similar incident two years prior.
Residents of the Aurora D1 urbanization in Arequipa, Peru, were jolted awake by a powerful explosion early Tuesday morning. An explosive device detonated at the doorstep of a house inhabited by elderly individuals, causing alarm throughout the neighborhood.
Fortunately, the occupants of the home escaped unharmed, though the blast left a significant mark on the property, creating a roughly 15-centimeter opening in the wooden and metal door. Investigators found remnants of plaster, pressed cardboard, and gunpowder, suggesting a homemade firecracker was used.
The homeowners, who are elderly, expressed confusion and distress over the attack, asserting they have no disputes or connections to illegal activities. "We don't have to be afraid because we haven't harmed anyone, we are good people," one resident stated, emphasizing their peaceful lives and requesting a swift resolution to the investigation.
Police are actively searching for the individual responsible for detonating the device. Meanwhile, some neighbors recalled a similar explosion occurring near the same area approximately two years ago, raising concerns about a potential pattern of violence. Residents have requested increased police presence and faster response times from local authorities.
We don't have to be afraid because we haven't harmed anyone, we are good people.
Originally published by La Repรบblica in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.