Coquimbo region: Prosecutors and PDI intensify search for missing persons after storm

The Public Ministry and the investigative police (PDI) in Chile's Coquimbo region are escalating their search operations for people still missing following a severe weather system that hit the area. This region currently accounts for the highest number of disappearances nationwide due to the catastrophe.

Since the emergency began, the police have received a total of 20 reports of missing persons. While 17 individuals have since been located, authorities are now concentrating their efforts on the remaining three. The regional prosecutor, Patricio Cooper, stated that all missing person cases have been consolidated into a single investigation to streamline judicial and operational responses.

Resources have been bolstered, with additional personnel arriving from the Metropolitan Region to aid in the search. "The people can be assured that we will do everything possible... to find these people and, hopefully, find them alive," Cooper added. The PDI has deployed a multidisciplinary team, including specialized brigades and aerial support, to locate those still unaccounted for.

While initial findings suggest the three remaining missing individuals are alive, these circumstances require confirmation. The head of the Homicides Brigade in La Serena, Fredy Montoya, indicated that investigative efforts are ongoing to verify their location and health status. The operation involves the Aeropolice Brigade, the Person Location Brigade (BRIUP), and the PDI's Tactical Reaction Group.