The Comptroller General of the Republic identified significant irregularities at the Army Factory and Maestranza (FAMAE). An audit covering the period from 2022 to 2024 revealed payments exceeding one billion dollars in indemnifications. The investigation uncovered improper terminations and subsequent rehireings within the state defense entity. Report N. 750 of 2025 detailed the specific financial discrepancies found during the review.
According to Diario El Pulso, the audit found that 63 workers received indemnifications under the "mutuo acuerdo" clause. This specific termination category does not legally contemplate such compensation payments for employees. The total amount distributed to these employees surpassed the one thousand million dollar threshold during the reviewed timeframe. These payments were processed without adhering to standard labor regulations governing public sector contracts.
Four individual cases involved indemnifications exceeding one hundred million dollars each despite the regulatory restrictions. Pauta.cl reported that some of these officials were rehired immediately into the same positions. This practice bypassed standard recruitment and selection procedures required for public sector hiring. Such actions suggest a potential conflict of interest within the management hierarchy.
Beyond labor issues, the Comptroller flagged irregularities in equipment acquisition processes within the organization. In August 2023, the entity purchased a laser machine for approximately 70 million dollars through a direct agreement. The procurement lacked necessary technical analysis or comparison of offers from other suppliers. Violations included failing to credit the exclusivity of the provider as required by the Manual.
Operational deficiencies emerged shortly after the installation of the new machinery. The equipment experienced failures within four months of use and remained inoperative as of April 2025. Officials noted that the lack of a guarantee prevented demanding responsibility from the provider. This situation highlights significant risks associated with bypassing competitive bidding processes.
The Comptroller General ordered the Superior Council of FAMAE to initiate an administrative investigation. Authorities determined that the evidence warrants further scrutiny regarding potential administrative liabilities. The case files were subsequently transmitted to the Ministry of Public and the Council of Defense. These bodies will now assess whether criminal charges or administrative sanctions are appropriate.
This report underscores ongoing governance challenges within Chilean state-owned defense enterprises. Similar audits frequently highlight gaps between regulatory frameworks and operational execution. The findings suggest a need for stronger internal controls over personnel and procurement. Such systemic issues often arise when oversight mechanisms are insufficiently enforced across the board.
Public funds require rigorous protection to maintain fiscal responsibility and transparency. The oversight body emphasized that irregular payments undermine the integrity of state administration. Future management changes will likely focus on compliance with existing labor laws. Restoring public trust requires immediate corrective actions from the leadership team and board members.
Stakeholders will monitor how the Ministry of Public handles the transferred evidence. Increased scrutiny on procurement processes is expected to follow these revelations. Accountability mechanisms within the defense sector will face continued pressure to tighten. The outcome of these investigations will set a precedent for future state audits nationwide.
