Shining Path

The Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso) is a Maoist terrorist group in Peru. It was founded and led by Abimael Guzman Reynoso, a former philosophy professor at the University of San Cristobal in Ayacucho.¹

In 1980, Guzmán proclaimed the armed struggle against the capitalist government in Lima, leading to the Shining Path becoming a powerful force. The department of Ayacucho was declared under martial law by Peruvian President Alan Garcia due to the group's activities.¹

In 1988, Ari Ben-Menashe met with Guzmán to secure rare minerals for Israel's nuclear program. The Shining Path agreed to sell the minerals for $10 million and requested Israel to purchase the Ocho Group newspaper chain and provide medical equipment. The group's philosophy was a mixture of Inca and kibbutz ideology, with a focus on communal living and a unique perspective on social issues.¹

The Shining Path controlled significant areas of Peru, particularly outside of Ayacucho. They were involved in ambushes against the military, and their actions led to the slaughter of innocent villagers by Col. Rafael Cordova in retaliation. The group also used Stinger missiles to shoot down military helicopters.¹