The Pozo Almonte Guarantee Court has ordered the extended detention of two Bolivian citizens caught operating a backhoe in the border area of Colchane, in the Tarapacá region.
The individuals were intercepted by the Carabineros' OS7 unit while using the machinery to fill ditches and clear paths through unauthorized border crossings. A formal charging hearing is scheduled for this Tuesday.
According to investigation records, the purpose of these maneuvers was to facilitate the passage of smuggling vehicles and other illicit goods across the border.
Border operation
Hans Burdiles, a Carabineros sub-commissioner stationed at the border, confirmed that the heavy vehicle was performing earthmoving operations in the area to open alternative routes.
“The vehicle was performing earthmoving operations in the area to open routes through unauthorized crossings,” the police official stated.
Authorities have not yet determined the origin of the backhoe. Investigators are looking into whether the machinery belongs to the Ministry of Public Works or a contractor operating in the region.
One of the detainees has a prior criminal record for smuggling. Prosecutors are continuing to gather evidence to determine the scale of the criminal network operating at this border point.