Rise in Violent Crimes in Chile: International Organized Crime Groups and Transnational Crime Solutions

Chile has experienced an alarming increase in violent crimes in recent years, with international organized crime groups playing a significant role. Groups such as the Tren de Aragua from Venezuela, Los Trinitarios from New York, and Los Pulpos from Peru have contributed to the rise in criminal activity. Between 2014 and 2023, homicides increased by 60%, rapes by 46%, and robberies with violence or intimidation by 11%, according to data from the Center for Crime Studies and Analysis.

The judicial level is preparing for a mega-trial against 38 members of the Galician criminal gang, a subsidiary of the Tren de Aragua, for various crimes including homicide, kidnapping, human trafficking, sexual exploitation, extortion, arms and drug trafficking. This trial is considered one of the most complex criminal processes in recent years due to the high level of danger posed by those involved.

Researcher Pia Greene at San Sebastián University’s Center for Studies in Public Security and Organized Crime discussed challenges in combatting transnational crime in Chile. She highlighted how criminal activities have shifted towards more violent crimes against individuals. Despite progress made addressing organized crime, there is still a need for better intelligence coordination, prison reforms and comprehensive policies that address the root causes of crime.

Greene emphasized that improved coordination between law enforcement agencies, prosecutors and judges is crucial to effectively combat organized crime. However she cautions against militarizing crime as a solution citing potential risks associated with such measures. Instead she advocates for a holistic approach that encompasses intelligence gathering effective law enforcement and social policies to prevent criminal behavior.

In conclusion, Chile has seen an increase in violent crimes largely due to international organized crime gangs entering the country. While progress has been made addressing organized crime there is still much work to be done in terms of intelligence coordination prison reforms and comprehensive policies that address the root causes of crime.