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Four Arrested for Possible Involvement in Forest Fires: They Were Conducting Unauthorized Burns

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Carabineros confirmed during midday this Monday the arrest of four individuals in recent hours for their potential connection or responsibility in the origin of the forest fires affecting various areas of the south-central zone of the country.

According to details reported on T13 Tarde, three of these individuals were conducting unauthorized burns when they were caught by police personnel in coordination with Conaf.

The fourth detainee, meanwhile, allegedly carried out burns on Saturday, prior to Sunday when authorization was no longer in place. However, the fire was not properly controlled and spread, leading to the dramatic consequences we now know.

T13 Tarde was in the commune of Traiguén, La Araucanía region, this Monday, where a red alert for forest fires remains in effect. According to the latest figures reported at midday, 1,200 hectares have been affected in that area.

The Swiss Agricultural and Forestry Boarding School La Providencia, an emblematic institution in Traiguén located about 8 kilometers from the urban center, suffered severe damage. Around 25 students, along with teachers and staff, had to be evacuated, caught off guard by the fire's advance.

Additionally, eight homes were destroyed in the commune of Traiguén—two in the urban sector and six in rural areas that were devastated by the fire.

Finally, it is worth noting that, as of the latest report, 23,000 customers remain without electricity. On Sunday, the number of affected customers reached approximately 50,000.

Source:T13