By Trend News Line 2024-05-26 02:39:02.
Chilean Judge Orders Detention of Suspects
In a shocking turn of events, a Chilean judge has ordered the detention of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official for their alleged involvement in a massive forest fire in the Valparaiso region. The fire, which occurred in February, resulted in 137 deaths and left 16,000 people homeless. The two suspects, Francisco Mondaca and Franco Pinto, were arrested on Friday and will be held for 180 days while the investigation takes place.
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Suspects Accused of Planning and Starting Fire
According to chief prosecutor Osvaldo Ossandón, Francisco Mondaca, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter, is accused of physically starting the fire. Flares and fireworks were found in Mondaca’s vehicle, linking him to the crime. The other suspect, Franco Pinto, a former employee of the National Forest Corporation, is believed to have planned the incident. Investigators have evidence that the two men agreed in advance to carry out the act when weather conditions were suitable.
Possible Economic Motive Behind Plot
Prosecutors revealed that Mondaca claimed there was an economic motive behind the plot – to create more work in fighting fires. They have not ruled out the possibility of more individuals being involved in the crime. The detention of the suspects has left the Valparaiso Fire Department and forestry agency in shock.
Megafire Devastates Lago Peñuelas Nature Reserve
The devastating megafire began on February 2 in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve, located in the central region of Chile. The fire spread rapidly, burning through several communes and destroying over 10,000 homes. This incident is considered Chile’s worst tragedy since the 2010 earthquake that claimed the lives of over 500 people.
Reaction from Authorities
The commander of the Valparaiso Fire Department, Vicente Maggiolo, expressed dismay over the situation but reassured the public that this was an isolated incident. He emphasized that the actions of a few individuals should not tarnish the reputation of the fire department, which has been saving lives for over 170 years. Christian Little, executive director of the forestry department, described the detention of a former official as a painful experience for the agency. Both departments have pledged to tighten hiring procedures to prevent future incidents.
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Conclusion
The detention of the volunteer firefighter and former forestry official has sent shockwaves through the Valparaiso region. The investigation into the forest fire continues as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the crime. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of wildfires and the importance of fire safety measures..
Chile accuses volunteer firefighter and ex-forestry official with causing huge fire that killed many
Chile accuses volunteer firefighter and ex-forestry official with causing devastating fire that resulted in fatalities.
