Peru Dispatches 30 Firefighters on Standby for Colombia Earthquake Rescue

Peru stands ready to assist Colombia following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck the country. The Volunteer Firefighters of Peru (CGBVP) announced that 30 members of its Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) Unit are on alert and prepared to deploy to Colombia.

Commander Leonidas Talenta, Director of Institutional Image for the CGBVP, stated that the deployment hinges on Colombia formally requesting international support. "We already have a group of 30 personnel on alert, and if activated, we will proceed to the next stage, which is mobilization," he said.

The earthquake, which had its epicenter in Colombia's Chocó department, caused significant damage across various cities. Initial reports indicate over 110 fatalities, with the number expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue.

The Peruvian USAR team is equipped for specialized tasks, including the localization, stabilization, and rescue of individuals trapped in debris from collapsed buildings. Their expertise is crucial in the aftermath of disasters like earthquakes, explosions, and structural failures.

For the Peruvian firefighters to reach Colombia, the Colombian government must issue an official request through its relevant authorities. Following this, the need for assistance will be assessed, and coordination with specialized teams will occur before the team's potential travel, possibly via a humanitarian flight.

“

We already have a group of 30 personnel on alert, and if activated, we will proceed to the next stage, which is mobilization.