LIMA Police Raid President Boluarte’s Home in “Rolexgate” Probe
LIMA — In a dramatic turn of events, police in Peru stormed President Dina Boluarte’s residence in a high-profile corruption investigation known as “Rolexgate”.
Reports surfaced alleging that President Boluarte had failed to declare over a dozen Rolex watches, prompting authorities to launch a search operation at her home.
The scandal unfolded after a news exposé highlighted the extravagant Rolex watches she was seen wearing at public functions, starting from the time she assumed office in December 2022.
Defending herself, Boluarte claimed that her Rolex timepiece was a sentimental possession acquired through hard work since the age of 18.
In response to the mounting pressure, the government recently announced its decision to scrutinize Boluarte’s asset disclosures over the past two years.
Asserting her innocence, Boluarte declared last week that she entered the realm of politics with integrity and would exit it with the same pristine reputation.
The early morning raid on Saturday, carried out through a collaborative effort between law enforcement and the prosecutor’s office, was captured live on local TV station Latina.
The scene depicted officials swarming Boluarte’s residence in the Surquillo District of Lima, with police blocking traffic to maintain order.
This dramatic operation followed Boluarte’s unsuccessful plea for an extension to comply with a subpoena demanding evidence of purchase for the controversial watches.
Boluarte, a former attorney, ascended to the presidency unexpectedly after her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, faced impeachment for his controversial attempt to dissolve Congress and govern by decree.
Castillo’s removal from office triggered violent protests demanding Boluarte’s resignation and the organization of fresh elections, resulting in numerous casualties during clashes. — BBC
