The Rescue of Heroes. The "Chavín de Huántar" Case

We all have imprinted in our minds that heroic afternoon when a group of brave commandos stormed the residence of the Japanese Ambassador to rescue seventy-two hostages alive. After one hundred and twenty-six days of grueling negotiations, the government faced the dilemma of yielding to a dangerous passivity or proceeding with decisive action. The Movimiento Revolucionario Túpac Amaru (MRTA) had closed off its willingness to negotiate. Given this terrorist group's track record, it was foreseeable that the deadlock would also mean the loss of human lives. The government of the time decided to take the reins through the use of force. The commandos acted with precision, in line with a plan whose fundamental objective was to save the captives. The rescue operation, called "Chavín de Huántar," was successful — even exemplary. The heroism of the commandos was recognized. Nevertheless, the commandos were subjected to unjust suspicion. Nearly fifteen years after their conduct was called into question (and eighteen years after the rescue), the commandos are vindicated by an international ruling that, while not pronouncing on individual responsibilities, puts an end to the uncertainty that had hung over them through a double trial. It is important that public opinion know that the ruling of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (Corte IDH) regarding this case constitutes a legal victory rooted in an authentic search for truth and justice. (Excerpt from the foreword).