Six individuals charged in Los Ríos timber theft and cattle rustling case

Six individuals, including three members of the Carabineros (two active and one retired), have been formally charged in La Unión, Los Ríos Region, for their alleged involvement in a criminal network. The charges include timber theft, non-violent property usurpation, cattle rustling (abigeato), receiving stolen goods, and clandestine slaughter.

The investigation, conducted by the PDI and the Prosecutor's Office, began following reports of land usurpation at a Forestal Arauco property. During the probe, authorities discovered illegal timber sales and seized over 430 kilograms of meat from a property used for clandestine activities.

Although the Public Ministry requested pretrial detention for two of the primary suspects, citing a danger to society, the court denied the request. Instead, the court imposed various precautionary measures, including nighttime house arrest, national travel bans, and prohibitions against approaching the affected forest property. A 90-day investigation period has been established to continue gathering evidence and determining individual responsibilities.