High Mountain Rescue Police

DEPSAM PNP stands for the High Mountain Rescue Division of the National Police of Peru. This unit is part of the National Police of Peru (PNP) and is specifically responsible for conducting search and rescue operations in high mountain areas and difficult terrains. DEPSAM members are highly trained to deal with the extreme conditions found in the country’s mountain ranges, such as the Andes, and provide assistance to mountaineers, tourists, and locals in emergency situations.

Their activities include:

  • Rescues in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Medical evacuations in high mountain zones.
  • Prevention and education on mountain safety.

This unit is crucial in a country like Peru, which has many high-altitude areas frequented by adventurers from around the world.

Saving Lives in the Mountains...

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About us - Who are we?

Dedicated to Mountain Rescue and High Mountain Safety

The Mountain Police of Peru, formally known as the High Mountain Rescue Division (DEPSAM), is a specialized unit within the National Police of Peru (PNP). This division is responsible for conducting search and rescue operations in high mountain areas, as well as ensuring the safety of those who travel or engage in activities in high-altitude and rugged terrains.

Characteristics of the Mountain Police of Peru:

  1. Specialized Training: The officers in this division are trained in climbing techniques, rescue in steep terrain, and survival in extreme conditions such as intense cold and high altitudes.

  2. Geographical Coverage: They operate mainly in the Andes Mountains, which stretch across much of Peru, in high mountain areas like Huaraz (Cordillera Blanca), Cusco, Arequipa, and other regions where mountaineering and adventure tourism are common.

  3. Functions:

    • Conduct rescue operations in case of accidents, lost persons, or medical emergencies in the mountains.
    • Lead search efforts for missing individuals in rugged terrain.
    • Provide preventive assistance and guidance to mountaineers and tourists regarding the risks and safety measures in the mountains.
  4. International Collaboration: They work together with international rescue organizations and other security institutions to coordinate efforts in emergency situations, especially when foreign tourists are involved.

  5. Humanitarian Mission: Their primary goal is to save lives, protecting and assisting those who face dangers in the mountains. They also participate in training mountain guides and other professionals in rescue techniques.

This unit is essential in a country with many high mountain areas and significantly contributes to the safety of both locals and tourists who venture into Peru’s heights.

Our certifications

Our mission

Saving Lives and Protecting Mountaineers

The mission of the Mountain Police of Peru is to protect and preserve lives by providing specialized search and rescue services in high-altitude and remote mountain areas. They are dedicated to:

  • Swift Response: Offering rapid and effective rescue operations for individuals in distress in the mountains, including climbers, hikers, and tourists.
  • Ensuring Safety: Promoting safety and risk prevention through education, guidance, and active monitoring of high mountain regions.
  • Professional Expertise: Utilizing advanced techniques and equipment to perform complex rescues in extreme conditions, such as steep terrain, severe weather, and high altitudes.
  • Collaboration: Working in coordination with local, national, and international organizations to ensure the efficient handling of emergencies and support for those in need.

The Mountain Police of Peru are committed to safeguarding all who explore the country’s mountainous regions, ensuring that they are prepared and equipped to respond to any emergency.

Our vision

Extreme Height Rescue and Support

The vision of the Mountain Police of Peru is to become a leading force in mountain safety and rescue operations, recognized both nationally and internationally for their excellence and dedication. They aim to:

  • Set the Standard in Mountain Safety: Establish best practices and innovative techniques in search and rescue operations, ensuring the highest levels of safety for those in Peru’s high-altitude regions.
  • Strengthen Collaboration: Build stronger partnerships with national and international organizations to enhance rescue efforts and improve response times.
  • Promote a Culture of Prevention: Foster greater awareness and preparedness among adventurers, climbers, and local communities through education and proactive safety measures.
  • Expand Capabilities: Continuously improve their skills, equipment, and technology to adapt to the evolving challenges of high mountain rescue and emergency response.

Their ultimate goal is to safeguard lives in Peru’s mountainous areas, ensuring that all who venture into these regions can do so with confidence, knowing that expert assistance is always within reach.

Our Team - La División de Salvamento en Alta Montaña (DEPSAM)

Prepared for Any Mountain Emergency

In 2024, the High Mountain Rescue Division (DEPSAM) of the Peruvian National Police has approximately 60 to 70 specialized rescuers. This number may vary slightly depending on operational needs and ongoing training of personnel. DEPSAM rescuers are trained in advanced high mountain rescue techniques and are equipped to face a variety of challenges in difficult terrain and extreme conditions.

ISMAEL ISAIAS SUDARIO YNGA
Captain of the High Mountain Police