Peru. In order to reduce illegal broadcasting, the Ministry of Transport and Communications, MTC, has so far this year dismantled 82 "pirate" radio stations and seized 213 telecommunications equipment and devices illicitly used to transmit broadcasting services.
According to data from the General Directorate of Inspections and Sanctions in Communications of the MTC, Lima is the region where more "pirate" stations have been eradicated: 30 in total. It is followed by Cajamarca (10), San Martín (10), Arequipa (9), La Libertad (6), Lambayeque (6), Junín (5), Ica (4) and Cusco (2).
To achieve these results, the current management of the MTC, led by Minister Paola Lazarte, has carried out constant surprise operations in coordination with the National Police and the Public Ministry.
"We promote the existence of more broadcasting services for the benefit of Peruvians, and these must be done legally, using authorized frequencies, paying taxes and respecting intellectual property rights. Therefore, we will persist in operations, to eradicate the crime of aggravated theft of the radio spectrum, "said the Deputy Minister of Communications, Patricia Carreño.
It should be noted that the unauthorized use of the radio spectrum entails administrative sanctions ranging from S/ 148,500 (about US$40,000) to S/ 247,500 (about US$67,000). In addition, it constitutes an aggravated theft crime, which can carry an effective prison sentence of up to 8 years. At the same time, the contracting of advertising and institutional space through illegal broadcasting stations is also subject to administrative disciplinary measures, with fines ranging from S/ 49,500 (about US$14,000) to S/ 148,500,500 (about US$40,000).
