LIMA, April 27 (Xinhua) -- A Peruvian police officer was killed and another injured on Monday during a hostage rescue operation in the northeastern region of Loreto, authorities said.

The Peruvian Public Prosecutor's Office said the incident occurred in the community of Providencia along the Corrientes River, where two oil transport vessels had been held for several days.

Prosecutors and police were deployed to the area to verify the situation and assist in the operation, which rescued five hostages.

The injured officer is receiving medical treatment, while authorities have ordered an autopsy for the deceased. Local media reported that the officer died during evacuation to a hospital.

The vessels had been intercepted earlier this month by a group of individuals who threatened the crew, forcing them to divert to the community. The incident is under investigation. ■