Sponsors
Interagency Operation Targets Timber Theft in La Araucanía
In a show of strength and coordination, the Regional Ministerial Secretariat of Public Security (Seremi) led a joint operation with the National Forestry Corporation (Conaf), Carabineros de Chile, the Internal Revenue Service (SII), and Chilean Army personnel under the National Defense Headquarters to reinforce the fight against timber theft in the La Araucanía Region.
During the operation, thorough checks were conducted on cargo trucks at key points in the region, reviewing necessary documentation such as shipping guides, transport permits, certificates of origin, and tax records. These measures aim to detect irregularities and, if found, initiate sanctioning processes and refer the background information to the corresponding courts.
The action takes place in the context of celebrations such as national holidays and the International Geoparks Meeting, but authorities emphasize that the prevention of serious crimes, such as timber theft, does not stop.
"We are controlling timber trucks to verify that the traceability of where the wood comes from is correct and that it complies with all regulations to detect possible timber theft... we will continue working in all areas, both common crimes and these crimes that are part of organized crime, so that La Araucanía is safe not only during events but in all crimes affecting the region," stated a spokesperson for the Seremi of Public Security.
Timber theft has been identified as one of the main sources of funding for organized crime networks in La Araucanía, which has led the Government to implement the National Plan Against Organized Crime. The recent operation underscores the State's commitment to security, legality, and the protection of forest heritage, considered fundamental pillars for the welfare and sustainable development of the region.
The collaboration between different State institutions reflects the determination of the authorities to confront organized crime and ensure that Chile's natural resources are managed responsibly and legally.
