In southern Chile, the Carabineros made a major breakthrough in their investigation into the murder of three police officers on Saturday. On Sunday, three suspects were arrested in the area where the massacre occurred. The incident has been described as a terrorist attack by President Gabriel Boric, who vowed to use all legal tools to ensure those responsible face the maximum sentence.
The intense police operation leading to the triple arrest took place in Cañete, a town located about 500 kilometers south of Santiago. The area is known for frequent clashes between radicalized Mapuche sectors and the forces of the state in a long-standing conflict over land. The identities of the suspects have not been released yet, but investigations are focusing on this sector as the alleged perpetrators of the crime.
Meanwhile, Hector Llaitul, a leader of Arauco-Malleco Coordinator, was found guilty of various charges including “violent usurpation of property” and “attack against authority.” Llaitul risks up to 25 years in prison. The government has announced it will file a complaint against those responsible for the triple murder, seeking the highest penalties for their crimes. The area where the attack occurred has been under a state of emergency since May 2022 to control attacks by armed groups.
Minister of Interior Carolina Tohá described the murders as a horrific act and called for justice to be served. However, controversy surrounding Ricardo Yáñez, head of Carabineros, has also been reignited with calls for his resignation intensifying. Despite this, no decision regarding his position has been made by the government at this time.
In conclusion, while progress is being made in identifying and apprehending suspects involved in this heinous crime against our nation’s law enforcement officers, we must remain vigilant and continue our efforts to bring justice to these families and communities affected by this violence.