Captain Gary Chiroque Barreno, the intelligence chief of the Comando Unificado Pataz (CUPAZ), was arrested by the National Police of Peru (PNP) on charges of alleged extortion in La Libertad. According to General Ricardo Espinoza, the regional police chief, the officer was apprehended in possession of cash following accusations that he demanded S/5 000 from a local business owner in exchange for avoiding purported security operations.
Before the apprehension on June 18, police officers from the Chagual station had documented the serial numbers of the cash used in the sting operation, which totaled S/4 000.
How the arrest unfolded
The arrest occurred following a police-led sting operation designed to catch the officer in flagrancia. According to reports, the business owner had previously received threats via WhatsApp from Chiroque, who allegedly demanded payment to prevent raids on the premises. At 6:30 a.m., upon receiving the marked money, the captain attempted to discard the cash through the bars of a nearby property and flee the scene, but he was intercepted and subdued by police agents.
The involvement of a high-ranking intelligence officer in an alleged extortion scheme presents a significant challenge for institutional integrity in Pataz. When those tasked with security are accused of exploiting their position for personal gain, it often triggers intensive internal administrative reviews and complicates ongoing cooperative efforts between military and police forces in the region.
Institutional response and next steps
The Comando Unificado Pataz (CUPAZ) stated that it will provide all necessary information and cooperation to the police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office to facilitate the investigation. In an official communication, the command emphasized that the alleged actions of a single member do not represent the mission or values of the institution. As the investigation proceeds, the legal process will determine the specific criminal liabilities facing the captain, and he may face further disciplinary action from the military depending on the outcome of the judicial proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the motive behind the alleged extortion?
According to the preliminary investigation, the owner of a restobar accused the captain of demanding S/5 000 to prevent supposed military or police operations near his business.
How was the captain apprehended?
The PNP organized an operation on June 18. After receiving the funds, the officer attempted to dispose of the cash and flee, but he was reduced by police agents at the scene.
What is the position of the Comando Unificado Pataz regarding the case?
The command has publicly committed to providing all required facilities to the police and the Prosecutor’s Office to help establish individual responsibilities.
Do you believe increased oversight of intelligence units is necessary to prevent such incidents in high-security regions like Pataz?
