Chilean Customs detects two arms shipments entering Los Libertadores
Two inspection procedures carried out by officials of the National Customs Service at the Los Libertadores Border Complex made it possible to detect the hidden entry of weapons and ammunition into the country, within the framework of the Integrated Security Inspection Program that is being developed in all customs offices in the country.
The first discovery was made during a routine inspection of an international bus traveling from Argentina to Santiago. Officers from the Drug Enforcement and Related Crimes Unit used an electronic metal detector that alerted them to the presence of a metallic object concealed in the abdominal area of one of the passengers.
After a review in administrative offices, it was verified that the traveler was carrying an elastic belt in which he concealed two 9mm caliber Glock pistols, both with their serial number erased, in addition to three magazines, four grip backs and a speed loader.
Due to the nature of the weapons, the Investigations Police were called in to assist with their removal and technical verification, confirming that they were firearms capable of firing. Subsequently, at the instruction of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the case was handed over to the Chilean National Police (Carabineros de Chile) to continue the investigation into a suspected violation of Law No. 17,798 on the Control of Weapons and Explosives.
The second operation took place during the inspection of a private vehicle arriving from Argentina. During the inspection, officers from the Drug and Related Crimes Enforcement Unit discovered various parts and components of a Bersa Thunder 9 9mm pistol hidden in different compartments of the car.
As a result of the inspection, the frame, slide, barrel, firing pin spring, and a metal magazine of the firearm were seized, along with 18 unfired 9mm cartridges found distributed throughout the vehicle. The relevant information and the seized items were turned over to the appropriate authorities, in accordance with established procedures.
The Regional Director of Customs in Los Andes, Nelson Ortega, emphasized that both discoveries reflect the ongoing work of the inspection teams to strengthen border security. “These procedures are the result of the specialized work of our officials and the strengthening of control capabilities that we are developing within the framework of the Integrated Security Inspection Program. The detection of this type of weaponry prevents arms and ammunition from entering the country illegally, contributing to the protection of public safety and the fight against cross-border crime,” he stated.
