Magallanes Region faces high rates of child sexual exploitation

During a Senate Public Security Commission session held in the Magallanes Region, regional prosecutors revealed alarming statistics regarding the sexual exploitation of children and adolescents (ESNNA). The Public Prosecutor's Office currently has 46 active investigations for these crimes in the area, a rate that doubles the national average.

Between 2023 and July 2024, 214 incidents of child sexual exploitation were recorded, affecting 77 unique victims. The majority of cases occurred in Punta Arenas (207), followed by Puerto Natales (6) and Porvenir (1). Data shows that 90% of victims are female, primarily between the ages of 11 and 17. Senator Karim Bianchi noted with concern that many of the victims are minors currently under state custody.

In addition to addressing exploitation, the commission session focused on broader security measures to prevent organized crime from using the region as an international corridor. Discussions included biometric controls, passenger list access, and the potential establishment of a Carabineros training school in the region to enhance local security capabilities.