Kast regrets the death of a policeman who was shot in an operation that allowed the capture of El Rana

President José Antonio Kast expressed deep sorrow over the death of Corporal First Class Marco Cosme Barquero, who was shot during an operation that led to the arrest of Carlos Esteban Cancino Tapia, known as "El Rana." The 32-year-old officer died after being critically injured in the face during the operation conducted on Wednesday in the rural area of Punucapa, near Valdivia. His death was confirmed on Saturday. According to the president, Barquero was attacked by a fugitive from justice who had remained unpunished until this operation. The operation aimed to capture Cancino Tapia, suspected of being the last person wanted in connection with the October 2020 murder of Subofficer Eugenio Naín. When cornered, the suspect allegedly opened fire on police officers. During the operation, another officer, Subofficer Roberto Canio Quilaleo, was wounded in the abdomen but is now out of critical condition. Cancino Tapia sustained injuries to his neck and knee and remains hospitalized. His detention has been extended because his health condition does not yet allow for formal charges or his appearance before the court. Kast emphasized that the government will ensure the perpetrator spends the rest of their life in prison and that all individuals who aided him in evading capture will be held accountable. He described the attack as cowardly and noted that the fugitive had lived in complete impunity up to this point. Minister of Public Security Martin Arrau also mourned the death of Barquero, stating that the officer was wounded while participating in the operation to apprehend the last fugitive linked to the murder of Subofficer Eugenio Naín. Arrau mentioned that the suspect fired again at police during the operation and is currently under custody due to his injuries. He stated that the detainee must answer for his actions before the courts, adding that he expects no leniency. Arrau offered condolences to Barquero’s family and the Carabineros institution, emphasizing that Chile stands with them and will not forget his bravery, dedication, and public service. Barquero had been in critical condition since the incident, receiving treatment at the Base Hospital in Valdivia. His death marks a somber moment for the security forces and highlights the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in such operations. The operation itself underscores the ongoing efforts to bring to justice those responsible for violent crimes, particularly those involving members of the armed forces. Cancino Tapia's arrest comes amid continued investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing of Subofficer Naín, which occurred nearly four years ago. The case had drawn attention due to its unresolved nature and the lack of closure for the victim's family and colleagues. With Tapia now in custody, authorities hope to move forward with legal proceedings that could provide answers and justice for those affected by the crime. The incident has sparked discussions within the security community and among officials regarding the safety of officers during high-risk operations. While the successful capture of a key suspect is a notable achievement, the loss of a young officer adds a layer of tragedy to the outcome. Both the government and the Carabineros have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that those responsible for violence against law enforcement are brought to justice. The situation continues to unfold as legal processes are initiated against Cancino Tapia. His condition remains a factor in determining the next steps in his prosecution. Meanwhile, the focus remains on supporting the family of Corporal Barquero and honoring his memory within the institution he served.