The University of O’Higgins has suspended all teaching activities at its Rancagua Campus for this Wednesday, April 15. The decision follows a shooting threat received on Tuesday afternoon.
In an official statement, the institution described the incident as “regrettable and unacceptable.” According to reports from latercera.com, the university warned that the situation puts the campus community at risk and is causing widespread public alarm.
The university has filed a formal complaint with the Carabineros (national police). Authorities have been provided with all available information to assist in the police investigation.
In addition to the suspension of classes, the university announced it will pursue legal action against those responsible. The institution is seeking both administrative and criminal penalties against those behind the threat.
Administrative activities will transition to remote work. Only essential functions required to maintain campus operations will continue in person, under the coordination of department heads.
Wave of threats hitting educational institutions
This incident comes amid a period of high tension across several regions of Chile. Reports indicate a wave of similar warnings has been targeting schools and universities in the Valparaíso, Maulet, and Biobío regions.
Recently, multiple institutions have been forced to activate security protocols after detecting threats left in bathrooms or posted on social media. Affected schools include Colegio San Nicolás in Villa Alemana and Liceo Constitución.
In the Talcahuano area, Colegio Adventista, Colegio Inmaculada Concepción, and Colegio Sagrados Corazones de Hualpén all implemented preventive suspensions of activities. Liceo La Asunción also decided to send students home after detecting a similar warning.
The Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción also implemented precautionary measures. Following a threat at its San Andrés Campus, the facility closed its doors and moved to online learning while police investigate the matter.
