Peru: 7 killed in clashes as judge sends ousted president to 18-month custody

7 people were killed in clashes after a Peruvian judge ordered ousted ex-President Pedro Castillo on Thursday to remain in custody for 18 months, approving a request from authorities for time to build their rebellion case against him.

The judge's decision came a day after the government declared a police state of emergency as it struggled to calm violent protests.

The protests erupted after Castillo was voted out of power by lawmakers, following his attempt to dissolve Congress ahead of an impeachment vote.

The ruling came days after Congress stripped Castillo of the privilege that keeps Peru's presidents from facing criminal charges.

Castillo and his legal team refused to participate in Thursday's virtual hearing, arguing it lacked "minimum guarantees."

He was represented by a public defender.

Peru’s Supreme Prosecutor Alcides Chinchay said in court Thursday that Castillo faces at least 10 years in prison for the rebellion charge.

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Meanwhile, a large group of protesters — and police in riot gear — gathered in central Lima Thursday evening.

The government also imposed a curfew in at least 15 communities, as allowed by the nationwide emergency declaration issued Wednesday.

The protesters were demanding Castillo’s freedom, the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, and the immediate scheduling of general elections to pick a new president and members of Congress.

They have burned police stations, taken over an airstrip used by the armed forces and invaded the runway of the international airport in Arequipa, a gateway to some of Peru’s tourist attractions.

with AP and AFP inputs