Dozens of officers were involved in a raid targeting the home of Peru’s President Dina Boluarte in connection to an investigation related to undisclosed luxury Rolex watches. The raid aimed to locate the watches that Boluarte had not declared, involving around 40 officials from the police and the prosecutor’s office. The operation, which was shown on local television, depicted government agents using a sledgehammer to break into the president’s residence in the Surquillo district of Lima.
The search and seizure operation at Boluarte’s residence was authorised by the judiciary at the request of the attorney general’s office. The raid took place while the president was not at home, with the officers blocking oncoming traffic and surrounding the house. The investigation into Boluarte was initiated after reports surfaced alleging that she had worn various Rolex watches at official events without explaining how she could afford them on her public salary. The president defended herself by attributing the watches to her hard work since the age of 18 and urged the media not to intrude on personal matters.
Attorney General Juan Villena criticised Boluarte for requesting a two-week delay in her appearance before the court, emphasising her obligation to cooperate with the investigation. He highlighted the importance of providing proof of purchase for the watches and warned against their disposal or destruction. The government comptroller announced plans to review Boluarte’s asset declarations for the past two years in search of any irregularities. Despite the scrutiny, the president remained steadfast in her defence, declaring that she entered and would leave the Government Palace with clean hands.
Boluarte assumed the presidency in December 2022 after former President Pedro Castillo attempted to dissolve Congress and rule by decree, resulting in his removal and arrest. The transition of power was marred by protests in which at least 49 people were killed. Critics have accused Boluarte’s administration of adopting an authoritarian approach to circumvent calls for early elections and collaborate with Congress on legislation that poses a threat to Peru’s judicial independence. The ongoing investigation into the undisclosed Rolex watches adds to the challenges facing the government amidst growing discontent and unrest.
The scrutiny surrounding President Boluarte’s possession of luxury watches has raised concerns about potential corruption within her administration. The public backlash has intensified as Boluarte sought to delay her court appearance and defended her ownership of the Rolex watches. The allegations have further strained the credibility of the government, which is already facing criticism for its handling of political turmoil and social unrest. The calls for accountability and transparency in Boluarte’s leadership have intensified, as the investigation into the source of her luxury possessions continues to unfold. The outcome of the probe is likely to have significant implications for the political future of Peru and the reputation of its leaders.
