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Peruvian Journalist Mitzar Castillejos Dies Two Weeks After Aguaytía Ambush

With no arrests announced, press groups demand a swift, transparent probe.

Overview

  • Castillejos, a host at Radio Latín Plus 107.7 FM and director of Bato a Informarte Noticias, died on December 26 at Lima’s Hospital María Auxiliadora after two weeks in intensive care.
  • He was shot multiple times by two assailants on a motorcycle in a daytime attack in Aguaytía on December 12, suffering five wounds, including three to the abdomen.
  • The Health Ministry said he underwent complex surgeries and later developed septic shock, which proved fatal despite medical efforts.
  • His killing is the fourth of a journalist in Peru in 2025, following cases in Ica, Iquitos, and La Libertad that reflect rising violence against the regional press.
  • Police and prosecutors have not reported detentions, and the ANP urges a thorough, transparent investigation and stronger protections, with lines of inquiry that consider his reporting on alleged municipal irregularities.