Peruvian journalist Susy Aponte Polo murdered after death threats over mafia accusations

Peruvian journalist and politician Susy Aponte Polo was shot and killed on Saturday, a week after she publicly reported death threats from a police leader she had accused of mafia activity. The killing follows a surge in violence against the press in Peru, with 140 attacks recorded in early 2026. The incident underscores escalating risks for journalists investigating corruption and organized crime in Peru.