Peruvian Army says soldier detained at parade was on security duty and identified himself

The Peruvian Army has issued a statement to clarify the circumstances surrounding the detention of one of its members during the Fiestas Patrias Civic-Military Parade. The soldier, identified as Suboficial de Primera Jhourchs Yhonatan Nolasco Valencia, was reportedly carrying out security functions when he was apprehended by National Police officers on July 29 around 7:10 a.m.

The Army's Second Division stated that Nolasco Valencia was assigned to security duties as part of an "Integral Security Plan." The institution emphasized that the soldier was taken to a police station in Jesús María "despite having identified himself." This assertion directly challenges the initial police version, which claimed the military personnel, who was armed, refused to be searched and did not present identification, leading to his arrest for alleged resistance and disobedience to authority.

Following the detention, the Army reported that its command intervened at the police station. They informed the police chief and the prosecutor on duty about the soldier's identification, his official duties, and the legal possession of his weapon. Subsequently, the case was handed over to the Military Police Prosecutor's Office, which confirmed the situation and ordered the soldier's immediate release around 11:30 p.m., concluding the incident. The Army reaffirmed its commitment to its personnel's professionalism and service, stating that respecting those who serve the nation strengthens public trust in institutions.