Indonesian embassy staff member shot dead in Peru while cycling home

A 40-year-old Indonesian embassy staff member was shot dead outside his apartment in Lima on Monday evening local time (1 Sept). The victim, identified as Zetro Leonardo Purba, served as a Junior Chancellery Administrator at the Indonesian Embassy in Lima. He had arrived in Peru only five months ago and was living in the Lince district with his wife and two young children. According to authorities, Purba was cycling home when he was intercepted by two men on a motorcycle. Surveillance footage shows one of the assailants, wearing a helmet, firing twice at him. The video then captures Purba falling to the ground before the attacker fires a third shot and flees on the motorcycle driven by an accomplice. Purba was rushed to hospital but was later declared dead.

Indonesia Urges Full Investigation

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono condemned the killing and urged Peruvian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation. “We have requested the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and local police to investigate this case thoroughly,” Sugiono said in an Instagram video on Tuesday (2 Sept). He said he had spoken with Indonesia’s Ambassador to Peru, Ricky Suhendar, as well as with Purba’s wife. Ambassador Suhendar has been instructed to closely monitor the investigation and facilitate the repatriation of Purba’s body to Indonesia. “I hope we can do our utmost to ensure this case is properly investigated,” Sugiono said. He also urged ministry personnel to remain patient and resilient during this difficult time, while stressing the importance of safety while serving abroad. “Most importantly, wherever you are, always prioritise safety in fulfilling your duties and responsibilities to the nation,” he reminded.

Peru’s Response

In an official statement on Tuesday (2 Sept), Peru’s Foreign Ministry expressed its “heartfelt condolences and condemnation of this despicable act.” Foreign Minister Elmer Schialer assured Sugiono that all necessary measures would be taken to clarify what happened. He also offered to strengthen police security for the Indonesian Embassy in Lima and its staff. The ministry pledged to support Indonesian authorities and ensure the crime is thoroughly investigated.

Police Investigation

Peru’s Interior Minister, Carlos Malaver, said the National Police (PNP) are examining the victim’s professional, social, and family circles as part of their inquiry. He confirmed that the attack was direct and intentional, noting that no personal belongings were stolen. “The Police are considering all possible suspicions. We can have various hypotheses, but I prefer not to go into detail so as not to generate misinterpretations,” Malaver said. He added that the PNP’s Homicide Division is conducting a detailed investigation, which includes examining the deceased official’s electronic devices. Meanwhile, Commissioner Guívar told the television station Perú Noticias that this was the first homicide recorded this year in the Lince district.