Sabotage confirmed in YCRT coal train derailment

Technical investigations into the derailment of a coal train at Yacimientos Carboníferos Río Turbio (YCRT) have confirmed indications of intentional sabotage. Santa Cruz Governor Claudio Vidal and YCRT interventor Pablo Gordillo reported that forensic analysis of the railway track and mechanical components revealed anomalies inconsistent with standard operational wear or spontaneous mechanical failure.

The incident, which occurred on October 7, involved the company’s only functioning locomotive, which had recently undergone nearly two months of repairs. The loss of this machinery is expected to paralyze coal transportation for several months, resulting in an estimated economic loss of $10 million.

Governor Vidal emphasized the danger the act posed to workers and noted that the derailment threatens a significant commercial opportunity involving a coal sales contract that could have funded the purchase of two new locomotives. The provincial government has called for judicial independence to ensure those responsible are held accountable.