The Ministry of Culture of Peru announced on April 6 that authorities have recovered an area illegally occupied within the protected zone of the Chan Chan Archaeological Complex in Trujillo. The operation was carried out by officers from the National Police, who removed individuals occupying approximately 5,000 square meters in the Barrios Populares sector, adjacent to Colegio Militar Ramón Castilla.
This action is significant because it underscores ongoing efforts to protect Peru’s cultural heritage sites from illegal occupation and potential damage. According to the Ministry of Culture, fostering social inclusion by protecting heritage and promoting diversity is a central goal for communities across Peru, as described on its official website.
During the intervention, police removed makeshift structures such as mattresses, water tanks, irrigation hoses, a sign indicating use as a nursery space, and domestic animals from within the protected area. The operation was led by Colonel Johnny Huamán Mariano with about 25 officers from units including USE, SUAT, GRECCO, DIVINCRI and Huanchaco police station. Personnel from the Directorate of Culture for La Libertad participated under director Christian Arbaiza Mendoza’s leadership after prior coordination with police to ensure smooth execution.
Arbaiza Mendoza said: “La invasión de sitios arqueológicos constituye un delito contra el patrimonio cultural, sujeto a sanciones penales, así como a medidas administrativas.” He also reminded citizens that invading archaeological sites is considered a crime against cultural heritage and can result in both criminal penalties and administrative measures.
The ministry operates through decentralized facilities and museums alongside its San Borja headquarters to support programs throughout Peru according to its official website. It serves communities nationwide while promoting cultural identity and advancing intercultural dialogue according to its official website.
The intervention proceeded peacefully without violence. This event reaffirms authorities’ commitment to defending national heritage. The Ministry of Culture functions as an autonomous ministry under Peru’s Executive Branch according to its official website, working since its creation in 2010 to safeguard heritage while encouraging intercultural dialogue.
