Bolivia: Councilor Wounded in San Matías Shooting, Evacuated to Brazil

A substitute councilor in San Matías, Bolivia, is recovering after being wounded in a violent shooting that claimed the life of another individual. Iver Ricardo Dantier Vargas, a substitute councilor for the Libre alliance, sustained bullet wounds during an armed assault at a local barbershop. While his injuries are not life-threatening, he was evacuated across the border to Cáceres, Brazil, for medical treatment.

“

The councilor substitute of the Libre alliance, Iver Ricardo Dantier Vargas, was evacuated to the Brazilian city of Cáceres to receive medical attention.

The attack targeted Pablo Roberto Saavedra Souza, 31, who was at the "El Chaqueño" barbershop when assailants on two motorcycles stormed in and opened fire. Dantier Vargas, who owns the barbershop, was also injured while cutting a client's hair.

Preliminary investigations by the Special Force to Fight Crime (Felcc) suggest the assassination of Saavedra Souza may be connected to ongoing conflicts between Brazilian criminal factions, specifically the First Capital Command (PCC) and the Red Command (CV), active in the border area. Saavedra Souza is reportedly related to Amarildo Gomes de Aruda, known as 'Tión,' a figure linked to a PCC faction and numerous violent incidents in the region.

“

His condition does not present a serious threat, according to initial reports.

This incident adds to a disturbing trend of violence in San Matías, with five other deaths reported in July, including a police lieutenant. In response, law enforcement has deployed approximately 180 officers and specialized units to the border municipality to apprehend those responsible for the recent attacks.

“

The assassins arrived on two motorcycles, entered the barbershop, and shot directly at Saavedra Souza, then fled the scene.