The archaeological site Pampa Outsidein the province of Casma, Ancashhas been the scene of a new intervention by the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC) of Áncash and the National Police of Peru (PNP), after receiving a complaint about an alleged illegal occupation.
The authorities confirmed the removal of soil and the presence of sticks and fruit plantations within the protected perimetera situation that puts at risk one of the most relevant sections of the pre-Hispanic road network on the Peruvian coast.
The Administrative Sanctioning Process (PAS) team of the DDC Ancashthe Casma Police Station and representatives of the Provincial Municipality of Casma They entered the area after a citizen complaint.
During the inspection, the specialists confirmed the installation of equidistant poles and plantations, signs of a irregular occupation of the site.
At the same time, earth removal supposedly carried out with heavy machinery was detected, which left fragments of ceramics and pre-Hispanic textile remains.
The northern sector of the site was the most affected, and according to reports, the discovery of archaeological materials during the excavations increased alarms regarding possible looting or alteration of the environment.
The authorities ordered the immediate removal of structures and plantations to protect the area. In addition, they filed a formal complaint against those responsible for these irregular actions, a measure supported by current regulations for the protection of the cultural heritage.
The DDC Ancash reaffirmed its commitment to the preservation of heritage, pointing out that the joint work with the PNP and the municipality It aims to give clear signals against invasions and illicit acts in the archaeological sites of the region.
The site of Pampa Outside remains under surveillance after the operation, while the authorities process the evidence collected.
Pampa Outside It is not an isolated site in Andean archaeological history. It is part of the network of Path of the Plainsconsidered a secondary section of the Qhapaq Ñan on the coastal strip.
The importance of this space lies in the evidence of geoglyphs and accumulations of stones that corroborate the use and construction of these roads by ancient peoples of the region.
Furthermore, its characteristics make it a reference for understand the organization and techniques used by the cultures that preceded the Inca period.
It is not the first time that the authorities intervene to prevent damage in the area. Last August, the PNPin joint action with personnel from the Ancash DDCarrested four people carrying out unauthorized excavations at the neighboring archaeological site Pampa Rosario.
There, in addition to opening a one-kilometer trench, coils of pipe were recovered and the removal of ceramic fragments was recorded. Those responsible were placed at the disposal of the judicial and police entities for the corresponding investigation.
In the midst of this context, the DDC Ancash and its local allies reiterated the call to the population to denounce any attempted invasion or illegal excavation in sites of historical value.
