vraem | marine | joint command | luminous path | Children of ‘Vilma’ and ‘José’ confessed location of terrorist camps | POLICY

49

Peruvian Navy Technician Killed in Operation against Shining Path Terrorists

In the early hours of the morning, the Joint Intelligence and Special Operations Command (CIOEC) initiated a major offensive targeting the remaining camps of the Shining Path terrorists in the Vraem region. The objective was to penetrate and neutralize the most important strongholds of the terrorist organization.

The precise location of these camps was reportedly provided by the children of two captured comrades, ‘José’ and ‘Vilma’. The children, known as ‘José Jr.’ and ‘Hugo’ or ‘Gabriel’, disclosed the coordinates of their parents and another key terrorist leader. The ongoing military operation aims to capture these three top commanders: Víctor Quispe Palomino (‘José’), Florabel Vargas Figueroa (‘Vilma’), and the third unidentified terrorist.

The operations are centered near the Jerusalem community of Miñaro in the Pangoa district of central Peru’s jungle region. This area is known to have local residents sympathetic to the Shining Path, who shelter the subversives from security forces.

Videos shared on social media showed the intense battle with flashes of gunfire in the dark sky. The military helicopters were seen flying over the area as the operation continued into daylight. Additional military patrols have been dispatched to support the ongoing mission against the Shining Path in the Vraem jungle.

During the operation, a tragic incident occurred when the CIOEC patrol was attacked by the terrorists, resulting in injuries to several members and the death of third-class technician Edgar Tiburcio Espinoza from the Peruvian Navy. Tiburcio, aged 36, had 13 years of experience in special operations and was known for his service in high-risk zones like Vraem. He was decorated as a “Vrae Combatant” and had received special recognition for his service in the Navy.

Technician Tiburcio’s death is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the military personnel in the ongoing fight against terrorism. His bravery and dedication will be remembered as he is laid to rest as a fallen hero.