Chile-Peru border explosion: Truck hits mines in suspected smuggling attempt

Authorities in the Arica y Parinacota region are investigating a fatal incident at the Chile-Peru border after a pickup truck entered a restricted minefield near Hito 16. The vehicle, described as similar to a Ford F-150, reportedly traveled from Tacna, Peru, toward Arica, Chile, before detonating two anti-tank mines on Sunday night.

Preliminary investigations by the Investigative Police (PDI) and the Chilean Army suggest the vehicle may have been involved in copper smuggling, as investigators recovered copper cathodes and other items from the wreckage. Forensic experts are currently analyzing biological remains found at the scene to confirm if they belong to a deceased individual, as reports indicate one fatality may have occurred.

The area where the explosion took place is a clearly marked and delimited minefield. Due to the ongoing danger of additional explosives, specialized Army anti-explosive units have been required to secure the site. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from border crossings to determine the identities of the occupants and the exact route taken by the vehicle.