Chile President Kast vows life sentence for killers after police officer Marco Cosme killed

First Sergeant Marco Cosme Barquero, a 32‑year‑old member of Carabineros' elite GOPE unit, was shot in the face during a police operation in Punucapa, Valdivia, aimed at capturing fugitive Carlos Cancino Tapia, known as “El Rana.” Despite emergency treatment at Hospital Base de Valdivia, Cosme died on 18 July 2026.

President José Antonio Kast posted condolences on X, calling the attack a “cowardly murder” and vowing that the perpetrator would “spend the rest of his life in prison” and that anyone who protected or covered up the crime would be held accountable. Carabineros declared an institutional period of mourning for the fallen officer, who had more than 13 years of service and multiple commendations.

The government announced it will pursue all responsibilities related to the killing, signaling a firm stance against violence targeting law‑enforcement personnel.