News

Arson attack halts forestry operations in Vilcún

Sponsors

• Two machines reduced to ashes in alleged sabotage act linked to Mapuche demands.

In the early hours of this Wednesday morning, an arson attack shook the tranquility of the town of Cherquenco, in the commune of Vilcún, leaving at least two forestry machines completely destroyed.

The incident, which took place at the forestry operation in the sector of strip 24,000, Cairico area, is being investigated by authorities, who found a banner with political demands at the scene.

Forestry operations in the La Araucanía region were abruptly interrupted when workers discovered that heavy machinery used for timber extraction had been consumed by flames. According to initial reports, the attack left no injuries but caused significant material losses for the affected company, whose name has not been disclosed.

Personnel from Carabineros' Public Order Control unit arrived at the scene after receiving a report from the operation's manager, who encountered the aftermath of the incident. Among the charred remains, a banner demanding the release of Luis Tranamil, a Mapuche community member currently imprisoned, was found.

This event adds to a series of similar incidents that have affected the forestry industry in the region, amid territorial and cultural claims by Mapuche communities. The banner found suggests a possible political motive behind the attack, though no group has yet claimed responsibility.

The Public Prosecutor's Office has been notified, and more information about the ongoing investigation is expected in the coming hours. This arson attack not only poses a challenge to regional security but also highlights the complex conflict between corporate interests and Indigenous demands.

The situation in La Araucanía remains a critical point on the national security agenda, and this new incident will likely intensify the debate on how to address tensions and seek sustainable solutions that respect the rights of Indigenous communities.