Piura, Peru - December 29, 2024 An environmental emergency has been declared in Peru following an oil spill in the Pacific Ocean by state oil firm Petroperu. The company has not disclosed the volume of oil spilled but has deployed workers for cleanup operations. Peru's environmental watchdog, OEFA, has released a preliminary report indicating that approximately 10,000 square meters of surface seawater have been affected by the spill. Petroperu has pledged to continue its cleanup efforts using crews, boats, and drones to manage and monitor the affected area. Damage to coastal ecosystems has been reported by local authorities, who highlighted the harm to plants and marine animals, including crabs. The oil spill has also impacted local fishermen, who have been unable to work due to the contamination.