DUDLEY KNOX LIBRARY |
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Description
Traditional Marxist-Leninist revolutionary
movement founded in 1983 and formed from remnants of the Movement of the
Revolutionary Left, a Peruvian insurgent group active in the 1960s. Aims
to establish Marxist regime and to rid Peru of all imperialist elements,
primarily US and Japanese influence. Peru's counter-terrorist program
has diminished the group's ability to carry out terrorist attacks. MRTA
has suffered from infighting, the imprisonment or deaths of senior
leaders, and loss of leftist support.
Activities
Previously conducted bombings, kidnappings,
ambushes, and assassinations, but recent activity has fallen
drastically. In December 1996, 14 MRTA members occupied the Japanese
Ambassador's residence in Lima and held 72 hostages for more than four
months. Peruvian forces stormed the residence in April 1997 rescuing all
but one of the remaining hostages and killing most of the group's
leaders. The group has not conducted a significant terrorist operation
since and appears more focused on obtaining the release of imprisoned
MRTA members.
Strength
Believed to be no more than 100 members,
consisting largely of young fighters who lack leadership skills and
experience.
Location/Area of Operation
Peru with supporters throughout
Latin America and Western Europe. Controls no territory.
External Aid
None
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