Peru Declares Environmental Emergency Following Petroperu Oil Spill

Investing.com -- An environmental emergency has been declared in Peru following an oil spill caused by the state oil company Petroperu in the Pacific Ocean. The company did not disclose the volume of the spilled oil but has assigned workers for cleanup efforts.

Peru's environmental regulatory body, OEFA, reported in a preliminary statement that approximately 10,000 square meters of the sea surface has been affected by the spill. Petroperu has committed to continuing cleanup operations using teams, boats, and drones to manage and monitor the impacted area.

Local authorities have reported damage to coastal ecosystems, highlighting the harm to plants and marine life, including crabs. The oil spill has also affected local fishermen who are unable to work due to the pollution.

Ricardo Banca, the Mayor of the Obitos Region, expressed concerns about the potential impact of the spill on regional tourism, calling on responsible authorities to take decisive action.