Peru cancels million-dollar purchase of riot control vehicles and tanks
The Peruvian government has annulled a $30.7 million contract for the purchase of riot-control vehicles and tanks due to irregularities in the procurement process.
The government of José Jerí, who was ousted on February 17, attempted to enhance police capabilities by acquiring 44 riot-control buses and tanks. Initially, these acquisitions were planned under a contract valued at $30.7 million, but the deal has now been annulled, adding to a growing list of canceled contracts plagued by irregularities and allegations of corruption.
The General Office of Administration and Finance (OGAF) of the Ministry of the Interior stated that American company TAG Dynamics and South Korean company Daeji were shortlisted for the contract. The selection leaned towards the American option after a thorough evaluation of operational capabilities, particularly the torque and power that would suit the demanding conditions in various regions of Peru. Subsequently, TAG Dynamics had offered a discount, which was seen as an advantage in the bidding process.
However, the cancellation highlights ongoing issues within Peru's procurement procedures, especially under the scrutiny of new governance and public accountability demands. The annulment of this contract reflects a broader concern regarding transparency in government spending, especially in the context of acquiring equipment for law enforcement agencies. This situation raises questions about the future of procurement policies and their implications for public safety and governance in Peru.