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Tension Persists in La Araucanía: Radical Groups Remain Active

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• Despite government efforts and a decline in violent incidents, radical groups in La Araucanía have not yet been fully dismantled.

Following a series of arson attacks that have shaken the La Araucanía region, the government has expressed growing concern over the persistence of radical groups in the area. Despite a 42% drop in violent incidents compared to the previous year and the enforcement of a State of Constitutional Exception, authorities acknowledge that radical groups have not been completely dismantled.

Last week, two similar incidents were reported on Route 5 South in Collipulli and on the road connecting Padre Las Casas with Cunco, where individuals intercepted and burned trucks. These acts of violence, unseen for months, have put authorities on high alert.

The Presidential Delegate of La Araucanía, José Montalva, has voiced his concern, stating that while significant steps have been taken in investigations and prevention, radical groups remain operational. "I’ve always said it—I don’t believe they’ve been dismantled. The groups operating in the region have not been dismantled; they still exist, and while major blows have been dealt, there have been unprecedented investigative and preventive advances. They continue to operate, and as long as they do, they haven’t been fully dismantled. That’s where we stand, and that’s what we must work on," Montalva affirmed.

Despite the complex situation, progress has been made with the arrest of individuals linked to some of these groups, including the Mapuche Malleco Resistance, which has claimed responsibility for arson attacks such as the burning of two municipal trucks in Pidima, Ercilla. However, authorities emphasize that current efforts are still insufficient to consider the problem resolved.

The government remains committed to working tirelessly to dismantle these radical groups and restore peace in the region. The situation in La Araucanía continues to pose a challenge to national security and remains a focal point for the state’s security policies.