Araya ascends posthumously to Marcos Cosme and warns: This criminal has to pay with jail

General Marcelo Araya, head of Chile's Carabineros police force, announced during a religious ceremony in Temuco that Corporal First Class Marcos Cosme Barquero had been posthumously promoted to the rank of senior non-commissioned officer. The ceremony took place following Cosme’s death while on duty. Araya emphasized that such promotions were reserved for heroes who gave their lives in service to the country. Cosme was described as having fulfilled his institutional oath to sacrifice his life if necessary to defend order and peace. He was noted as an exemplary member of the GOPE unit, which specializes in high-risk operations, and as a devoted husband and father from the local area who sought to continue advancing within Carabineros. Araya expressed gratitude for the presence of President José Antonio Kast, First Lady Valeria Pérez, ministers, lawmakers, and representatives from various institutions at the funeral. According to him, Carabineros received expressions of sympathy from different regions of the country and international police forces. Araya stated that the institution would not give up and would rise as it always has. He insisted that Cosme’s death would not be in vain. Regarding Carlos Cancino Tapia, known as "El Rana," who was arrested during the operation in which Cosme was injured, Araya confirmed that Carabineros would provide all necessary evidence to advance the investigation. “This criminal must pay with prison time. This criminal should not be free. Criminals must be in jail,” Araya declared forcefully. He called upon anyone who had protected, concealed, or aided the accused while he remained at large to provide information to authorities. “This is not a game. They must turn him over, they must provide the evidence,” he concluded. President José Antonio Kast, via his social media account, stated that Chile was saying goodbye to a man who served his country with courage and sense of duty. He added that Cosme’s memory should serve as a reminder of the value of those who wear the uniform and protect citizens. Meanwhile, Minister of Public Security Martín Arrau highlighted that Cosme’s legacy would remain as an example of bravery, dedication, and commitment to service, praising the work of the GOPE unit in high-risk situations. The incident occurred during an operation targeting Carlos Cancino Tapia, a known criminal linked to drug trafficking and violent crimes. Details surrounding the operation have not been fully disclosed, though officials have indicated that all relevant information will be shared with prosecutors. The case has drawn attention to the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in combating organized crime. Carabineros has maintained a strict stance on accountability, emphasizing that criminals must face justice. Araya reiterated this position, calling for transparency and cooperation from all sectors of society. His remarks underscored the importance of holding individuals responsible for their actions, particularly those who evade legal consequences through protection or concealment. The promotion of Cosme to the rank of senior non-commissioned officer serves both as a tribute to his sacrifice and as a symbolic gesture to honor the values upheld by the police force. It reflects the broader sentiment among public officials and citizens that those who risk their lives in service deserve recognition and respect. The case has sparked discussions about the safety of police officers in high-risk operations and the need for stronger measures against criminal networks. While no further details have been released regarding the ongoing investigation into Cancino Tapia, authorities have stressed their commitment to pursuing justice for all victims of crime.