IED event in Peru on Wed 14th January 2026

A suspected extortionist met a grim end in Comas, Lima, Peru, after accidentally detonating the explosive device he intended to place at a local hardware store (ferretería) in the La Pascana area. The 18-year-old, identified as Pedro Franzua Arellano Solís, was attempting to plant the powerful TNT-laced explosive (a high-potency variant of dynamite) outside the business late Sunday night (January 11, 2026) when it went off prematurely in his hands. The blast caused catastrophic injuries, primarily to his arms, abdomen, and face, leaving him severely wounded on the street. Neighbors rushed to help as he screamed for aid, and he was quickly taken to Sergio Bernales Hospital in Collique, but succumbed to his injuries shortly after. His accomplice, who arrived with him on a motorcycle, fled the scene immediately after the explosion. No other people were hurt, and police from the UDEX (bomb disposal unit) secured the area. Authorities are investigating links to ongoing extortion rings targeting businesses in northern Lima districts, where such threats have surged. The store owner had previously reported extortion attempts. Karma delivered swift and brutal justice in this case.