Shootout at Lima fruit market leaves one dead, several arrested

Tensions flared at Lima's Mercado de Frutas in La Victoria on Saturday afternoon when an armed robbery attempt escalated into a violent clash between police and a criminal gang. The incident, which occurred around 3:00 p.m. near the market, left one suspect dead and several others apprehended, according to preliminary police reports.

The shootout caused panic among merchants, workers, and shoppers present at the time. Law enforcement quickly cordoned off the area to conduct investigations and identify all individuals involved in the confrontation. The criminal group responsible has been identified as 'Los desalmados de la gris' (The soulless ones of the gray).

Special police units, including DIVINROB, DIRINCRI, and SUAT, responded to intelligence indicating the gang was targeting merchants and bank agents operating within the market. The suspects reportedly attempted to flee after assaulting individuals associated with the market's banking services. During the police intervention, an exchange of gunfire ensued, leading to the death of one alleged gang member and the capture or injury of others.

Among those detained are both Peruvian and Venezuelan nationals, with authorities continuing efforts to complete identifications. The police confiscated two loaded pistols, one of which was a Glock reported stolen. Ammunition was also seized for forensic analysis. Additionally, four cell phones and two motorcycles used by the gang were recovered. One motorcycle had discrepancies in its vehicle identification, and the other was reported stolen.