Institutional, social, and security crises in Catamarca

Initial reports from various regions in Argentina highlighted localized urban management and public safety concerns. In Catamarca’s Valle Central, residents complained about the misuse of public parking spaces by certain companies and unions, while in San Martín, neighbors reported hygiene issues and insecurity due to poor lighting and public sanitation problems.

By late September, the focus in Catamarca shifted toward rising crime rates and drug trafficking, leading to public criticism of Governor Raúl Jalil. Reports included an anti-narcotics raid in Recreo that resulted in the seizure of marijuana and a revolver, as well as complaints in the capital city regarding police inaction following vehicle thefts. Residents expressed growing anxiety over the presence of firearms and perceived a lack of active patrolling by local law enforcement.

By the end of September, the Jalil administration faced a convergence of institutional, social, and environmental crises. Labor unrest intensified as judicial employees protested low salary increases and university teachers went on strike due to infrastructure shortages and overcrowded classrooms. In the eastern part of the province, community assemblies in Ancasti and El Alto suspended technical meetings regarding lithium projects led by the Ministry of Mining and Litios del Norte S. A., demanding transparency regarding drilling plans and freshwater consumption.

Security concerns escalated following violent crimes and drug raids in Recreo and the provincial capital. Citizens expressed indignation over perceived police inaction during robberies, noting they often have to recover stolen property themselves. Simultaneously, the province faced environmental threats, including a red alert for forest fires—with over 5,000 hectares burned this year—and preparations for high-intensity storms linked to El Niño.