Lima, Peru – A search operation is underway for a Peruvian police officer who disappeared in the Río Rímac river on February 20, 2026, while attempting to rescue a dog. Suboficial PNP Patrick Hiroshi Ospina Orihuela, a member of both the National Police of Peru and the volunteer fire department of Huachipa, went missing after being swept away by the strong current near the Santa Rosa bridge in Lima’s Cercado district. The incident has prompted a large-scale rescue effort involving multiple agencies, including the police, fire department, and the Peruvian Navy.
The dramatic rescue attempt unfolded when the officer responded to reports of a dog stranded on a slight island in the river. According to reports from RPP, Ospina Orihuela descended into the river using a safety rope to reach the animal. Yet, as he attempted to retrieve the dog, both were pulled into the fast-moving water and carried downstream towards Callao. The search has been hampered by challenging conditions, including a strong current and poor visibility. The incident underscores the risks faced by first responders in Peru, and has sparked an outpouring of support for the missing officer.
Search Efforts Intensify as Recovery of Officer’s Gear Offers Limited Hope
Search efforts were temporarily suspended on the night of February 20th due to adverse weather conditions and limited visibility, but resumed on Saturday, February 21st, with renewed determination. According to Marco Pajuelo Herrera, a fire department commander, the focus remains on locating Suboficial Ospina Orihuela. “The objective is to find our brother,” Pajuelo stated, emphasizing the commitment of the rescue teams. However, the search has been complicated by the river’s treacherous conditions. “The fall (of the water) is very violent and aggressive, which makes it difficult to work to find our brother,” Pajuelo explained, as reported by Diario Correo.
On February 21st, authorities announced the recovery of what are believed to be items belonging to the missing officer – a helmet, vest, and harness – near the riverbank. However, Brigadier Mayor CBP Marcos Pajuelo cautioned against definitively identifying the items as belonging to Ospina Orihuela, stating, “We cannot assure that the garments found are of the police officer,” according to ATV. This uncertainty adds to the distress surrounding the ongoing search. The recovery of the gear, while offering a potential lead, has not yet confirmed the officer’s location or condition.
The search operation has been significantly bolstered by the deployment of extensive resources. Infobae reports that over 40 drones are being utilized to scan the river from its origin point to the coastline, alongside ground teams and specialized tracking equipment. The Lima Metropolitan Municipality (MML) has also deployed a M30 patrol drone to assist in the search, demonstrating a coordinated effort across multiple levels of government. The combined forces include personnel from the Police, the Volunteer Fire Department, the Ministry of Health, SAMU, the Municipality of Lima, and Línea Amarilla, with support from the Navy and Air Police.
A Dual Rescue Attempt: Officer and Canine Both Lost in the Río Rímac
The incident began when the officer responded to a call regarding a dog trapped on an islet in the Río Rímac, near the Rayito del Sol bridge. Video footage, as reported by RPP, shows the officer approaching the animal and attempting to secure it with a rope. The dog, startled, then entered the water, and the officer followed in an attempt to rescue it, ultimately both being swept away by the current. The circumstances highlight the inherent dangers of attempting rescues in the Río Rímac, known for its strong currents and unpredictable conditions.
Suboficial Ospina Orihuela’s dedication to service extends beyond his role as a police officer. He is also a volunteer firefighter with the Huachipa fire company, demonstrating a commitment to public safety. This dual role underscores the sacrifices made by first responders in Peru, who often go above and beyond the call of duty. The fire department confirmed his membership in a Facebook post, expressing solidarity with the search efforts.
Challenges of the Río Rímac and Ongoing Search Operations
The Río Rímac, often referred to as the “Hablaor” (Talker) by locals, is notorious for its strong currents and unpredictable flow, particularly during the rainy season. These conditions pose significant challenges to rescue teams, making it difficult to locate and recover individuals swept away by the river. The river’s depth and the presence of debris further complicate the search process. The current search is being conducted under difficult conditions, with teams working against time and the elements.
Authorities are utilizing a unified command structure to coordinate the search and rescue operation, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and clear communication between agencies. The apply of drones, equipped with thermal imaging capabilities, is proving crucial in scanning the river and surrounding areas. The Peruvian Navy and Air Police are providing aerial support, expanding the search area and increasing the chances of locating the missing officer. The extensive deployment of resources reflects the seriousness of the situation and the determination to bring Suboficial Ospina Orihuela home.
The search area extends from the point where the officer disappeared to the Callao province, where the Río Rímac empties into the Pacific Ocean. Teams are meticulously searching the riverbanks, utilizing boats and divers to explore underwater areas. The public has also been urged to report any sightings or information that could assist in the search. The ongoing operation is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the Peruvian emergency services and the unwavering commitment to rescuing those in need.
As of Saturday, February 21st, the search for Suboficial PNP Patrick Hiroshi Ospina Orihuela continues. Authorities have not announced any further developments regarding his whereabouts. The focus remains on utilizing all available resources to locate the missing officer and bring closure to his family and colleagues. Updates on the search will be provided as they become available.
Key Takeaways:
- A Peruvian police officer, Suboficial PNP Patrick Hiroshi Ospina Orihuela, went missing in the Río Rímac river on February 20, 2026, while attempting to rescue a dog.
- Search efforts are being hampered by strong currents and poor visibility in the river.
- Authorities have recovered items believed to be belonging to the officer, but definitive identification is pending.
- A large-scale rescue operation involving multiple agencies is underway, utilizing drones, boats, and divers.
The search for Suboficial Ospina Orihuela remains a top priority for Peruvian authorities. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. Readers are encouraged to share this article and offer their support to the officer’s family and colleagues. Please leave your thoughts and well wishes in the comments below.