Korean Businessman Kidnapped in Peru Rescued Within a Day... Three Suspects Also Arrested

Embassy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Also Support Victims' Families

One Korean was reportedly kidnapped in Peru but was rescued by local authorities within a day.

On the 26th, Yonhap News reported that "Korean businessman Mr. A was kidnapped by a criminal organization after parting ways with an acquaintance in the early morning of the 24th (local time) in Lima, the capital of Peru, but safely returned to his family on the 25th, just one day later." At the time, Mr. A was transported to a hospital, and his safety was confirmed.

Peruvian police vehicle damaged by a grenade thrown by the kidnapper [Image source=Peru Police Agency X]

The local media outlet 'Andina News Agency' reported that the police rescued Mr. A after a pursuit and arrested three suspects involved in the kidnapping.

On the day of the abduction, an employee of the company operated by Mr. A contacted him via his mobile phone, but when an unidentified person answered, they suspected a kidnapping. Subsequently, the victim's family reported the incident to the police, leading to the rescue.

The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Peru reportedly provided necessary consular assistance by communicating with the local police and the victim's family immediately after receiving the kidnapping report. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also activated the Overseas Korean Protection Headquarters and held meetings to discuss safety measures.

Mr. A is said to have conducted business in Peru for a considerable period.

Meanwhile, Peru has been considered relatively safe in terms of public security in the Latin American region, but due to the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and increased immigration, the crime rate has reportedly risen recently.