President Kast attends the funeral of Corporal Marcos Cosme in Temuco

President José Antonio Kast attended the funeral service of First Sergeant Marcos Javier Cosme Barquero in Temuco on Sunday. The ceremony took place at the Carabineros training center in the city, marking the passing of a police officer who had been critically injured during an operation in the rural area of Punucapa. Kast was accompanied by First Lady María Pía Adriasola, Deputy Minister of the Interior and Government Secretary General Claudio Alvarado, and Minister of Public Security Martín Arrau. Cosme, who belonged to the GOPE unit of La Araucanía, died at the age of 32 after being shot in the face during the operation aimed at capturing Carlos Esteban Cancino Tapia, known as "El Rana," a fugitive linked to the murder of Subofficer Major Eugenio Naín. He had been hospitalized in critical condition at the Base Hospital in Valdivia following the incident. His death prompted the Chilean government to declare three days of national mourning. The funeral service included remarks from Senator Rodolfo Carter, who emphasized the need to pursue with determination those responsible for attacks against police officers. Carter stated that regardless of whether suspects were caught alive or dead, they should be brought to justice and imprisoned for life. He argued that the death of a police officer should not be normalized, stating that while society might become desensitized to such losses, each death represents the loss of a citizen. Following the ceremony, President Kast expressed his condolences to Cosme’s family and colleagues in the GOPE unit. In a social media post, he noted that Chile was bidding farewell to a man who served his country with courage and a sense of duty. He emphasized that Cosme's memory should serve as a reminder of the value of those who make up the police forces and protect citizens. Minister of Public Security Martín Arrau also paid tribute to Cosme, expressing his condolences to his family, fellow GOPE members, and the entire Carabineros institution. He highlighted Cosme’s legacy as one of bravery, dedication, and a calling to serve. Arrau also praised the ongoing work of the GOPE unit, which regularly faces high-risk situations to ensure public safety. He added that Cosme’s memory and service would always remain in the hearts of Chileans. Cosme had served for 13 years and five months and had received ten commendations throughout his career. These recognitions included commendations for police operations, mountain rescue missions, river rescues, and his role in apprehending those responsible for the murders of three Carabineros in Cañete. His death has sparked renewed discussions about the risks faced by law enforcement personnel in high-tension areas. The funeral marked a somber moment for the nation, underscoring the sacrifices made by those in uniform. As the country mourns, the focus remains on ensuring that those responsible for the attack are held accountable, reinforcing the commitment to protecting those who serve in the line of duty.