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Marcelo Araya Assumes Role as New General Director of Carabineros

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• Following the resignation of Ricardo Yáñez, Marcelo Araya takes command of Carabineros with the backing of President Boric and a promise of continuity and stability.

In a significant change within the structure of Chile's Carabineros, Marcelo Araya Zapata was appointed as the new general director of the institution, succeeding Ricardo Yáñez Reveco, who submitted his resignation amid his upcoming formal indictment for failure to prevent illegitimate coercion during the 2019 social uprising. The announcement was made by President Gabriel Boric and communicated by Interior Minister Carolina Tohá.

Araya, who celebrated his 55th birthday on the same day as his appointment, has served in Carabineros for 36 years, most recently as deputy general director. His career has spanned operational to administrative roles, including positions such as zone chief and police attaché at the Chilean Embassy in Peru.

In his first statement as general director, Araya emphasized the maturity and capability of the institution to move forward and maintain operational continuity. "The institution does not halt; at no point has it stopped carrying out its duties," stated Araya, assuring both Carabineros personnel and the public that they can take pride in the transition and trust in the stability and continuity of the institution.

Minister Tohá expressed gratitude for Yáñez's work, acknowledging the complex moment in which he assumed leadership and the importance of his contribution to a proper transition. Yáñez's resignation and Araya's appointment are presented as efforts to maintain trust in the institution and its connection with the community.

According to Araya's own words, his mandate will extend beyond November 19, the date by which he is expected to continue strengthening the institution and addressing current challenges. With a career that includes experience in intelligence, drug control, and public order, Araya now faces the challenge of leading Carabineros during a period of scrutiny and reform.