Argentine security response to Congress protests

Following security operations conducted near the Argentine National Congress on August 6, National Deputy Esteban Paulón submitted a resolution to summon Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva to the Chamber of Deputies.

The request for explanation intensified after social media images circulated showing unidentified armed individuals in civilian clothing participating in security operations near Parliament. Controversy has escalated following the identification of one such individual as Inspector Commissioner Gustavo Antonio Gauna of the Argentine Federal Police (PFA). Reports indicate Gauna, a high-ranking official, was seen aiming a long weapon toward demonstrators.

Deputy Paulón has demanded details regarding the procedures used, specifically questioning why these individuals were included in the operation and whether they received specific instructions. Opposition members and legal experts have raised concerns that using unidentified, plainclothes officers may violate constitutional guarantees. While some within the Ministry of Security suggest internal sanctions may follow, others defend the use of plainclothes investigation brigades.

Investigations have also focused on injuries sustained by protesters and journalists during the debate on land property laws, including a reporter who suffered a skull fracture. The National Commission for the Prevention of Torture (CNPT) has characterized the use of force during the event as “abusivo y desproporcionado” (abusive and disproportionate).