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3 Years of State of Emergency: Navy Claims Measure Has Reduced Rural Violence Incidents

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Three years into the State of Emergency in the Southern Macrozone, the Navy stated that the measure has led to a "significant" decrease in incidents linked to rural violence.

When asked about the issue and regarding the attack at the Rucalhue Power Plant in the Bío Bío province, the Regional Governor, Sergio Giacaman, argued that the presence of the Armed Forces must continue in the area until achieving "institutional robustness" by the State in terms of security.

Although he did not provide figures, Rear Admiral and Commander-in-Chief of the II Naval Zone, Arturo Oxley, noted that the Navy's presence in the Southern Macrozone has contributed to a "significant" reduction in rural violence-related incidents.

This, despite the triple homicide of police officers in Cañete in 2024 during the State of Emergency, along with the attack on the Rucalhue Power Plant the previous month, where at least 12 individuals burned around 50 machines.

In this regard, the Navy authority stated that efforts continue to ensure the safety of people and roads, free movement, and support for uniformed police in enforcing precautionary measures in critical areas.

Regarding the events in Alto Bío Bío, Oxley added that a working group has been established with the private sector to enhance security at the power plant, in addition to existing military coordination with Carabineros in the area.

For this, companies must implement "mitigation" and "containment" measures, he added.

When asked about maintaining or lifting the presence of the Armed Forces in the provinces of Bío Bío and Arauco, Regional Governor Sergio Giacaman stated that the measure must "continue."

At the same time, Giacaman hopes that Congress can strengthen the State's role in security matters, expecting progress on laws such as critical infrastructure and rules on the use of force.

It is worth noting that the State of Emergency has been extended 53 times, with the latest renewal in effect until May 29.

Source:BiobioChile