Commander General Óscar Arriola Resigns from Peruvian National Police

Óscar Arriola, the Commander General of the Peruvian National Police, announced his resignation on Sunday amid ongoing criticism regarding the effectiveness of the police in combating crime. His departure is expected to be formalized in the coming days, according to a government statement.

Arriola took over as head of the National Police in late 2025, just before former President Dina Boluarte was impeached. During his nearly one-year tenure, the country saw four different Presidents: Boluarte, José Jerí, José María Balcázar, and the current conservative President Keiko Fujimori, who assumed office in late July.

The police force under Arriola faced significant criticism as violent crime escalated in Peru. Reports indicated that over 194,000 crimes were recorded in just the first trimester of 2026. While authorities later noted a decrease in homicides, kidnappings, extortions, and robberies recently, this was insufficient to diffuse the ongoing criticism against him. In fact, August 2026 alone saw at least 169 homicides, as reported by La República.

During an official announcement on Sunday night alongside Prime Minister Luis Galarreta and Interior Minister César Astudillo, Arriola confirmed his resignation. Galarreta revealed that Lieutenant General Fredy López Mendoza will take over Arriola’s position.

“I am leaving with a clear conscience and my head held high, just as I have done since leaving Chiclayo. I am grateful to President Keiko Fujimori, as well as to Presidents Boluarte, Jerí, and Balcázar,” he reportedly stated.

Arriola also dismissed rumors that his resignation was at the request of President Fujimori, claiming it was a result of his “personal evaluation” regarding governance issues. According to La República, sources within the government indicated that his departure had been agreed upon since at least mid-August. He took the opportunity to express his appreciation for President Fujimori’s support during challenging times.

Following his resignation, Arriola will file for retirement from the police force. Prime Minister Galarreta mentioned that this action shows a commitment to the nation and acknowledged Arriola’s long service and achievements in the police.

Galarreta emphasized President Fujimori’s priority on enhancing security in response to the current crime challenges facing Peru. While acknowledging the situation’s complexity, he assured that the government remains determined to combat crime, with measures that are reportedly already showing positive effects.

“Crime seeks to challenge us as a society and as a state, and we cannot allow that,” Galarreta stated. He underscored the goal of the National Police to uphold safety and human life in working towards a “safe Peru.”

Looking ahead, Radio Programas del Peru reported that Fredy López Mendoza, who has been the chief of the police’s general staff since January 1 and previously directed the national criminal investigation and anti-corruption divisions, will assume the role of the next Commander General of the Peruvian National Police.