Increase in Convictions for Timber Theft in Arauco Following Legal Change

The province of Arauco has seen a significant shift in the fight against timber theft since this crime was classified in the Penal Code three years ago. The Public Ministry reported that, during this period, 48 people have been convicted, demonstrating the effectiveness of the new legislation.

The provincial presidential delegate of Arauco, Humberto Toro, highlighted the impact of the law, recalling that as early as 2014 he had identified timber theft as the main criminal problem in the province. The resulting legislation has led to an increase in convictions and enabled more coordinated work between security forces and the justice system.

Arrests have seen an exponential increase, rising from 23 between 2018 and 2022 to 302 in the last three years. This rise in apprehensions reflects the joint efforts of Carabineros, the Investigative Police, Jedena, and the Public Ministry, who have united to combat this crime.

In addition to convictions and arrests, there has been a decrease in reports of timber theft. In 2023, 288 cases were filed with the Public Ministry, a number that dropped to 198 in 2024 and, as of September this year, has not exceeded 80 reports. These figures represent significant progress and, according to Toro, indicate that "we are winning against those who are committing this crime."

The success of the regulation and interagency collaboration is not only reflected in judicial statistics but also in the progress of the province. Toro emphasized that the goal is to advance the development of Arauco, improving housing construction, rural roads, and tourism, without allowing the crime of timber theft to hinder these efforts.

In summary, the province of Arauco presents an encouraging outlook in the fight against timber theft, with a law that has proven effective and a firm commitment from authorities and security forces to maintain and enhance the region's security and development.