Peru extends state of emergency amid political unrest

LIMA -- Peru has extended the state of emergency in several regions to deal with the two-month political turmoil that has claimed dozens of lives in clashes between protesters and security forces.

A mandate published in the official newspaper El Peruano Friday said the measure will be extended by 60 days due to "continued terrorist activities and other illegal acts."

The measure was imposed in 44 districts across the country for the armed forces to continue their operations. It suspends constitutional rights such as freedom of assembly and authorizes the military, with the support of police, to restore public order during the emergency.

The political unrest in the South American country began following the impeachment and arrest of former President Pedro Castillo on Dec 7 and the swearing-in of Vice President Dina Boluarte to replace Castillo.

Nationwide clashes between Castillo's supporters and security forces have left over 60 deaths.