By Trend News Line 2024-05-26 01:48:52.
Chilean Judge Orders Detention of Volunteer Firefighter and Former Forestry Official
A Chilean judge has made a significant decision in the case of a devastating forest fire that swept through the Valparaiso region in February, causing immense loss of life and property. The judge ordered the detention of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official, who are suspected of planning and causing the tragic incident.
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Suspects Detained for Allegedly Causing Mammoth Forest Fire
The two men, identified as Francisco Mondaca, a 22-year-old volunteer firefighter, and Franco Pinto, a former employee of the National Forest Corporation, were arrested on Friday and are now facing a 180-day detention period while the investigation unfolds.
Accusations and Evidence Against the Suspects
The chief prosecutor in the case, Osvaldo Ossandón, revealed that Mondaca is accused of physically starting the fire, with flares and fireworks found in his vehicle. Pinto, on the other hand, is believed to have been the mastermind behind the planning of the crime. Investigators have evidence suggesting that the two men conspired to start the fire under certain weather conditions.
Motive Behind the Plot
According to prosecutors, Mondaca claimed there was an economic motive behind the plot, as it would provide more work in fighting fires. They have not ruled out the possibility of more individuals being involved in the scheme.
Reactions from Authorities and Agencies
The commander of the Valparaiso Fire Department expressed dismay over the situation but emphasized that it was an isolated incident that should not reflect on the department’s overall work. The executive director of the forestry department described the detention of a former official as a painful development for the agency and vowed to tighten hiring procedures.
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Devastation Caused by the Megafire
The forest fire, which began in the Lago Peñuelas nature reserve, destroyed more than 10,000 homes in several communes, leaving 137 people dead and 16,000 homeless. It is considered Chile’s worst tragedy since the devastating earthquake of 2010.
Conclusion
The investigation into the forest fire in Valparaiso continues, shedding light on the alleged involvement of a volunteer firefighter and a former forestry official. The tragic incident has left a lasting impact on the community, prompting authorities and agencies to reevaluate their procedures to prevent such disasters in the future.
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Chile accuses volunteer firefighter and ex-forestry official with causing massive fire that resulted in fatalities.
