Chile Grapples with Rising Organized Crime and Gang Violence

Chile, long considered a safe haven in Latin America, is experiencing a surge in organized crime, largely attributed to the growing presence of Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. This influx has brought increased violence and a novel level of criminal sophistication to the country, challenging Chilean law enforcement and raising concerns about public safety.

The Emergence of Tren de Aragua

Tren de Aragua, originating from Venezuela’s notoriously brutal prison system, has established a foothold in Chile, exploiting vulnerabilities within the country’s institutions. According to Pablo Zeballos, an organized crime consultant and former intelligence official in Chile’s Carabineros police force, factors such as the delegitimization of governmental institutions, instances of police violence during the 2019 protests, and an unprepared prison system have facilitated the gang’s operations .

The gang has been linked to a dramatic increase in kidnappings, a crime previously rare in Chile. The number of reported kidnappings soared by 135% over the last decade, with a significant jump between 2021 and 2022, rising from 500 to over 820 cases . This rise coincides with Tren de Aragua’s increased influence in the country.

Escalation of Violence Against Law Enforcement

Chilean police, particularly the Carabineros, have faced a new reality of direct confrontation with criminals. In April 2023, Carabinero Daniel Palma was shot and killed during a routine traffic stop, with the weapon linked to Tren de Aragua . A year later, in April 2024, Lieutenant Emmanuel Sánchez was shot 14 times even as approaching a suspected robbery vehicle .

These incidents represent a turning point for Chilean law enforcement, who were previously less accustomed to being targeted with gunfire. Venezuelan criminals, having experienced more aggressive policing in their home country, appear more likely to escalate interactions with the comparatively more professional Carabineros . As one Carabinero anonymously stated, “When we arrest a Venezuelan, his reaction is to safeguard his life.”

Recent Homicide and Investigation

On Monday, February 17, 2026, a 37-year-ancient Venezuelan man was shot and killed in the commune of Santiago, near the San Antonio Bridge. The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds from assailants who fled in a van. Witnesses reported the attackers fired at point-blank range, targeting the victim’s head . Robbery was ruled out as a motive.

The Public Ministry has assigned the Team Against Organized Crime and Homicide (ECOH), along with the PDI Homicide Brigade, to investigate the homicide. Security camera footage from the area is being reviewed in an attempt to identify the perpetrators and understand the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Kidnapping of a Former Venezuelan Soldier

In February 2024, Ronald Leandro Ojeda Moreno, a 32-year-old former Venezuelan soldier, was kidnapped from his home in Santiago. The abduction was carried out by individuals dressed as PDI (Investigative Police) officers . A gray car with police markings was used in the kidnapping and later found abandoned with police clothing inside .

The investigation into Ojeda’s kidnapping is being led by Santiago’s Organized Crime and Homicide Team (ECOH), a unit created in response to the increasing homicide rate in Chile .

Looking Ahead

Chile’s struggle with rising organized crime and gang violence, particularly the influence of Tren de Aragua, presents a significant challenge to the country’s longstanding reputation for safety. Continued efforts to strengthen law enforcement, address vulnerabilities within the justice system, and improve social conditions will be crucial in combating this growing threat.