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Arson attack devastates company in Lautaro: 14 machines destroyed

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• An unidentified group of attackers set fire to machinery at an aggregates company, leaving a trail of destruction and a claim message at the scene.

In the early hours of this Wednesday morning, the tranquility of the commune of Lautaro was disrupted by a violent arson attack. The aggregates company La Estrella, located on Route S 215, became the target of a group of individuals who, after intimidating workers, proceeded to set fire to a total of 14 machines, including dump trucks and front loaders. The incident occurs amid tensions following the recent conviction of Mapuche leader Héctor Llaitul.

Preliminary Report
According to preliminary reports, the attack occurred before 3:00 a.m., when the assailants, whose exact number remains undetermined, stormed the company's premises. After threatening the on-site staff, they started the fire that quickly consumed the heavy machinery, a critical asset for the company's operations.

The attackers, while fleeing, left behind a banner with a claim message, the content of which has not been disclosed by authorities. This element could be key to understanding the motivations behind the attack and identifying those responsible.

Authorities' Response
Carabineros de Chile responded to the incident, arriving at the scene to gather initial statements and secure the area. The Lautaro Prosecutor's Office, after an initial assessment, has delegated the investigation to the Investigative Police (PDI), who are now leading the inquiries to clarify the facts and apprehend the culprits.

So far, no arrests have been reported in connection with the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing. The local community and those affected await answers and measures to ensure similar events do not recur.
Tense Context

This arson attack occurs at a time of heightened tension in the region, particularly following the guilty verdict against Mapuche leader Héctor Llaitul. Llaitul was found guilty of incitement and advocacy of violence under the State Security Law, as well as violent usurpation, timber theft, and assault on authority.

The connection between this verdict and the attack remains unclear, but authorities are not ruling out any hypotheses and are investigating all possible links.

Consequences and Reactions
The company La Estrella now faces the challenge of recovering from significant material losses, while workers and the local community are impacted by the violence and insecurity brought by such attacks.

Reactions to the attack have been marked by condemnation and concern from various sectors, including government representatives and organizations.