For failure to report alleged drug findings: former Curanilahue police officers are formalised

Two former police officers from Curanilahue were formally charged with failing to report a suspected drug discovery during a routine inspection, according to judicial authorities. The incident took place on June 14, 2025, during a patrol along Route P-418. The officers, both currently active members of the Chilean Police Force, conducted a search of a private vehicle and allegedly found a quantity of illicit substances believed to be drugs. Instead of following proper procedures, they did not submit the findings for analysis or file a report, despite the presence of four individuals who could have been implicated. The investigation revealed that one of the officers discovered a mobile phone displaying two white lines, which appeared to be cocaine. Rather than preserving evidence, the officer discarded the substance onto the ground. Later, the same officer identified three white paper strips, which were intentionally stepped on and thrown away. One of these strips was later confirmed to contain a substance resembling cocaine. Meanwhile, the second officer, while inspecting the belongings of the passengers, found a container labeled as containing yerba mate. He was instructed to dispose of it into a water puddle, under the justification of preventing the individual from being detained. During the inspection of one of the occupants' clothing, the officers uncovered a short-bladed weapon, known as a cortapluma, which was subsequently thrown into nearby trees. The case came to light through internal investigations within the police force, leading to the immediate removal of both officers from duty. The Public Prosecutor's Office has alleged that the officers left the scene without completing the necessary legal procedures or documenting their actions in official records. This omission is considered a violation of Law 20,000, which mandates reporting of suspected criminal activities. The charges were brought before the Arauco District Attorney’s Office, where the case is currently under review. In May of this year, one of the officers had already been removed from service after being formally charged in connection with a separate inquiry. That case involves two other former officers who were part of a criminal network in Curanilahue, providing them with confidential information to facilitate illegal activities. Prosecutor Johnny Cares requested preventive detention for the accused, but the request was denied by the Guarantee Court. The prosecutor has since appealed the decision to the Concepción Court, which will determine the outcome. Meanwhile, the second officer has been placed under house arrest and subject to national registration requirements. This case highlights ongoing challenges within law enforcement regarding adherence to procedural standards and transparency in handling potential drug-related offenses. It underscores the importance of maintaining rigorous protocols to ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law. The resolution of this case will likely provide further insight into how such incidents are addressed within the Chilean justice system.