Chile's President Kast pushes border security, migration reforms in Arica

Vice Minister Alvarado traveled to Arica to present the Senate's work on the Plan Escudo Fronterizo and the Integrated Border System (SIFRON). He said the plan aims to modernise control of land, sea and air borders, improve customs at ports and airports, and strengthen inter‑agency coordination. Alvarado reported that about 50 % of the plan’s targets have been met, with an 89 % increase in Army personnel deployed to the region and a 73 % rise in controls at the most vulnerable crossing points.

President José Antonio Kast also visited the Chacalluta border complex, inspected military deployments and announced the signing of two migration‑related bills, including one that would lengthen the detention period for irregular migrants who have committed minor offences. Kast highlighted similar gains in border enforcement – a 45 % progress on the “zanja” project and the same 89 % increase in troops and 73 % boost in controls – as the government marks 90 days in office.