Chile police dismantle youth robbery gang in Concepción

The Police of Investigations (PDI) broke up a violent robbery gang composed largely of minors in the Gran Concepción area of Chile's Bío Bío region. Four suspects were arrested – an adult and three adolescents – after they were identified through videos posted on social media bragging about the crimes and a fingerprint left on a stolen van. The gang entered homes in neighborhoods such as Andalué, Villa San Pedro, Lomas de San Andrés and San Sebastián, tying and beating victims; one victim suffered a broken rib. They stole valuables, firearms and vehicles, including a weapon taken from the home of a former police colonel, which has not been recovered. The 15‑year‑old was placed under house arrest for reception, the 16‑year‑old was released pending appeal, the 17‑year‑old was sent to provisional internment, and the 20‑year‑old adult faces preventive detention. One of the minors is a Venezuelan national residing irregularly in Chile. Evidence seized includes clothing used during the robberies. Authorities will continue investigations over the next four months to locate additional members of the group.