International Relatives of Missing Pilot Ashley Vargas Call for Global Assistance and Accuse FAP of Negligence: "Family in State of Shock"
Family of Missing Pilot Ashley Vargas Expresses Concern Over Search Operation and Peruvian Air Force Involvement
The family of Ashley Vargas, a Peruvian Air Force (FAP) pilot who has been missing since May 20 during a navigation mission in Pisco, Ica, voiced their concerns regarding the search operation and the perceived "disinterest" of the FAP on Monday.
Through their lawyer, Jose Ocampo, the family denounced that the search operation has weakened and claimed they feel neglected by the authorities. In a radio interview on Exitosa, Ocampo stated that the family is suffering from not finding the plane or Ashley's remains, and they are feeling the fatigue and the apparent lack of interest from those responsible for the search.
Ocampo explained that the family currently only receives support from civilian volunteers and firefighters from other regions. According to him, these individuals are the only ones actively searching for the aircraft. In contrast, he pointed out that the FAP presence in the area has diminished significantly.
"There are no helicopters, no planes, no drones, no personnel, and no patrol boats in the area," Ocampo stated. The family is feeling desperate due to the absence of search activity by the FAP and is urging the international community for logistical support.
Ocampo also criticized the lack of communication between the institution, stating that the family is always excluded from the process, and official announcements are only made by the FAP. He added that there appears to be a growing disinterest in the case within the institution.
In a later statement, the family asserted that they will not remain silent and accused the FAP of putting more emphasis on the KT-1P aircraft than the pilot herself. They claimed that there are responsibilities within the institution for the current situation and threatened that those responsible will have to answer for their actions.
Ocampo had previously denounced possible failures in the surveillance system and deficiencies in the mechanisms for locating the KT-1P aircraft. Meanwhile, the FAP confirmed that the aircraft had undergone adequate technical maintenance and met established standards. However, the family still seems dissatisfied with the pace and thoroughness of the search operation.
The Peruvian government, through Prime Minister Eduardo Arana, described the disappearance as "regrettable news" and expressed hope for a positive outcome in the search. The pilot, who was recognized as the Sword of Honor by President Dina Boluarte in 2022, held a top position throughout her training at the School of Officers.
This incident has raised questions about the resources being utilized, the nature of the incident, and the communication between the family and the authorities. The search for Ashley Vargas continues, with the support of various branches of the military, including the Army, Red Cross, Ministry of Defense, and Prosecutor's Office.
- The family, feeling neglected by the authorities, pleads for logistical support from the international community as the search operation for Ashley Vargas, a missing Peruvian Air Force pilot, seems to weaken.
- Amidst concerns about the resources utilized and the nature of the incident, criticism towards the Peruvian Air Force intensifies, with the family accusing them of a growing disinterest and prioritizing the KT-1P aircraft over Ashley Vargas herself.
