A recent incident in Comas, Lima, highlighted the challenges of public safety when a hitman was confronted and eliminated by an undercover police officer. This incident occurred on January 8, 2026, and involved multiple shots fired during an altercation in a residential area.
Details of the Incident
The drama unfolded on Avenida Andrés Belaúnde, near the fifth block, when a public transport driver, José Carlos Marín Anticona, was shot. The assailant, who posed as a passenger, shot the driver four times after asking to be dropped off. The victim was killed instantly, while his partner witnessed the attack from the passenger seat.
Following the shooting, the suspect attempted to flee through Pasaje Sucre, where he was spotted by an off-duty officer of the National Police of Peru (PNP). The officer acted quickly, engaging the suspect in a shootout.
Confrontation and Aftermath
Security cameras captured the intense moments of the confrontational exchange. Videos show the hitman fleeing while shots were fired, prompting nearby residents to seek refuge. The officer, risking his life, instructed one resident to stay on the ground as he pursued the criminal.
- Over eighteen shots were fired during the confrontation.
- Nearby homes suffered damage, with broken glass reported.
- The hitman, identified as Ángel Enrique Paredes Ramos, was ultimately shot dead.
Paredes Ramos had a criminal history tied to serious offenses, including previous involvement in a police officer’s murder. He was arrested in March 2025 but was released less than a year later, only to return to criminal activities.
Community Response
The intervention by the police officer garnered support from local residents who expressed their fear of rising crime in the area. Some residents called for increased security measures and voiced their concerns about the frequent presence of motorcycles linked to criminal activities.
Official Reactions
Both the Minister of Interior and the police chief praised the officer’s swift and courageous actions. The police chief emphasized the importance of recognizing officers who demonstrate such valor in the line of duty.
This incident raises important questions about public safety and the effectiveness of crime prevention measures in urban areas like Comas. The response from law enforcement and the community illustrates the ongoing struggle against organized crime in Lima.
