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Decrease in arson attacks in La Araucanía and increase in crimes under the Arms Law

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• The Investigative Police reports a notable decline in arson attacks and an increase in complaints and arrests related to the Arms Law in the region.

La Araucanía has experienced a significant shift in its security landscape over the past year, according to the 2023-2024 public accountability report of the Investigative Police (PDI). Chief Inspector Catalina Barría highlighted a decrease in arson attacks and an increase in complaints and arrests for crimes linked to the Arms Law.

Data provided by the Southern Macrozone Operations Center (CEO Sur) shows a downward trend in rural violence incidents, especially in provinces under a state of constitutional emergency. Since May 2022, attacks have decreased from 208 in 2022 to 136 in 2023, and to just 20 so far in 2024. This trend is also reflected in the La Araucanía region, where violent incidents dropped from 242 in 2023 to 30 in the first months of this year.

In contrast, crimes associated with the possession and use of weapons have seen an alarming increase. Complaints for violations of the Arms Law rose by 257% compared to 2022. Additionally, arrests for these crimes increased by 68.9%. During 2023, the PDI arrested 1,819 individuals for various crimes, most of which were linked to the Arms Law, theft, violations of the Drug Law, and sexual offenses.

The seizure of illegal weapons has also been significant. In the past year, authorities confiscated 60 firearms, 24 blank guns, 14 air guns, two improvised weapons, and 94 rounds of ammunition of various calibers.

These results stem from criminal analysis and intensive police investigations, focused on combating violence and the illegal use of weapons in the region. The PDI continues working to maintain the downward trend in arson attacks and to address the challenge posed by the rise in Arms Law-related crimes.

Photo: Biobiochile.cl